The term Dark Triad may sound like words from a crime novel.
However, it refers to personality traits that make people magnets for conflict and discord.
These negative traits are worrisome because they destroy relationships and jeopardize overall well-being.
The good news is that there is a blessing. If people in your life have these traits, help them build their strengths and minimize their weaknesses. It’s worth the effort because your relationships with them will improve.
What are the Dark Triad traits? More importantly, how would you cope if someone you know had these traits?
What is the Dark Triad?
The Dark Triad refers to three different, but related, negative personality traits. These are narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Having these traits makes a person difficult to manage.
- Narcissism
First and foremost, narcissism. This term originated from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a young man who fell in love with his own reflection after looking at himself in a pool of water. He became so immersed in it that he fell into the water and drowned.
As a result, narcissism has become synonymous with unhealthy self-love. Narcissists are arrogant, lack empathy for others, and have a low tolerance for criticism. Narcissists do not hesitate to manipulate others for their own gain. They also belittle others. It is worth noting that people are narcissistic to varying degrees.
- Machiavellianism
The term “Machiavellianism” is credited to the 16th-century Italian diplomat, Niccolò Machiavelli. The term arose because critics felt that his book “The Prince” allowed for cunning, deceit, and self-interest. The book argued that these traits were necessary for political gain.
Therefore, people with such traits take lying to new levels. They have no morals or feelings for others.
- Psychopathy
Those with psychopathic traits have no feelings for others. Because they lack remorse, they exhibit antisocial behavior. Many are explosive and controlling.
Note that having these traits does not make a person a psychopath. Psychopaths are criminals. Although those with psychopathic traits are unpredictable, they are not necessarily criminals.
One study showed that dark triad traits are not genetic but are due to environmental factors.
Those with the dark triad tend to exhibit behaviors that combine the worst of the three worlds. They have many affairs, often behind their partners’ backs. They are also aggressive.
How do you know if someone has the dark triad?
The first step to dealing with someone with the dark triad is to recognize their signs. Because they are complex, psychologists are still trying to understand them.
They used to measure each trait individually, but now there is an easier way to spot them. The Dirty Dozen Scale, created by psychology professors Dr. Peter Jonasson and Dr. Gregory Webster, shows whether a person has the dark triad.
I manipulate others.
I lie to others.
I flatter others.
I use others for my own gain.
I lack remorse.
I don’t care about the morality of my actions.
I am mean and insensitive.
I am a sarcastic person.
I need admiration from others.
I crave attention.
I want favors from others.
I seek status and prestige.
After answering the questions, psychologists rate the person on a score ranging from 12 to 84. Therefore, the higher the score, the more likely they are to have the Dark Triad.
How to Deal with People with Dark Triad Traits
How can you escape the clutches of a person with the Dark Triad? There is no easy way to do this. However, there are steps you can take to reduce their negativity.
First and foremost, people with these traits have difficulty managing their anger. For example, those with a bad temper. At work, their anger may manifest in passive-aggressive behaviors such as ignoring people or complaining. It is important not to take the behavior personally because it often has nothing to do with you.
Also, take some time to listen to their concerns and advise them on their behavior. Advocate for your position. If they are a bully, confront them and hold them accountable.
Another way to deal with such personalities is to avoid contact whenever possible. Use emails if you need to contact them. People with the dark triad are often charming. Experts suggest that they rely on their appearance to get what they want.
In one study, researchers told 200 Canadian university students to negotiate concert tickets, with the goal of winning as much money as possible. Those with dark triad traits were more successful in face-to-face negotiations.
In conclusion, the dark triad can destroy relationships. You can deal with it if you recognize it. Being assertive and intelligent also helps.
