Adaptive strategy of dark personalities

Abstract

The Dark Triad (DT) is a constellation of three dark personality dimensions, which includes Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism. It may be that these three personality traits are conceptually distinct; however, they have overlapping features such as callousness and interpersonal manipulation. The DT is characteristic of a maladaptive personality. Previous studies have revealed a positive relationship between DT and socially deviant behaviors and hostile interpersonal cognition. However, individuals with high DT scores are not always self-centered, but show altruistic and prosocial responses in certain situations. In this article, we have introduced the adaptive strategies of people with dark personalities. We then reviewed the associations between DT, social success, attractiveness, and building relationships with other people. Finally, we summarized the significance of adaptive strategies used by people with dark personalities.