Dating in the dark: Vulnerable narcissism predicts inauthentic self-presentation in online dating

Abstract

The current study investigated whether Dark Triad traits (vulnerable and grandiose narcissism, primary and secondary psychopathy, and Machiavellianism views and tactics) predicted inauthentic self-presentation whilst dating online, and whether those who reported engaging in antisocial dating behaviours were higher on Dark Triad traits, and more likely to self-present inauthentically in online dating. Online daters (N = 313) were recruited via Prolific and completed measures to assess Dark Triad traits, inauthenticity, and antisocial dating behaviours (i.e., ghosting and breadcrumbing). Vulnerable narcissism was a significant predictor of online dating inauthentic self-presentation. No other Dark Triad traits emerged as significant predictors. Online dating inauthentic self-presentation was significantly higher for those who had breadcrumbed someone. Those who had ghosted someone had significantly greater vulnerable narcissism and secondary psychopathy, and those who had breadcrumbed someone had significantly greater vulnerable narcissism and Machiavellianism views than those who had not. As previous research has demonstrated that individuals high on vulnerable narcissism are more likely to perpetrate intimate partner violence, online daters should consider evidence of inauthenticity to be ‘red flags’ for potential harm as interactions continue. Especially given the current study demonstrated those who had previously ghosted and breadcrumbed were higher on vulnerable narcissism.