The many faces of dark personalities: An examination of the Dark Triad structure using psychometric network analysis

Abstract Although the Dark Triad (DT) of personality has been studied for almost two decades, research regarding its structure is lacking, which pertinent to understanding personality-outcome associations. This study examined DT domains, both independently and as a cluster. Initial results were replicated with validation sample. Participants (Study 1: N = 301; Study 2: N = 224) completed six self-report questionnaires that assess domains. Exploratory Graph Analysis (EGA) was used in two-step process identify lower order facets higher factors DT. EGAs suggested eight Narcissism, Psychopathy, four Machiavellianism, factors, grandiose vulnerable narcissism formed separate factors. Network analyses highlighted central role Antagonism occupied network. provides support feasibility EGA, especially traits may be highly correlated, such components. Results highlight multidimensionality domains existing measures fail comprehensively capture, need further refine measurement Machiavellianism particular.