Illuminating the ‘dark core’: Mapping global versus specific sources of variance across multiple measures of the dark triad

Abstract

It remains unresolved whether a dark core “D” underlies the dark triad that exceeds the unique meaning of its individual sub-dimensions (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, narcissism). Based on life history theory, we argue in favor of the existence of “D”. According to life history theory, individuals high in “D” pursue a fast life history strategy which tends to provide them with short-term reproductive benefits. In a German sample (N = 395), we use a multitrait-multimethod approach integrating standard measures of the dark triad (Mach IV, SRP-III, NPI) with the Short Dark Triad scale and the Dirty Dozen. We compare a three-dimensional measurement model to a bifactor model and find that accounting for “D” significantly improves model fit. Moreover, we extend the dark triad's nomological network onto core self-evaluations and also include self-esteem and life satisfaction. Results show that “D” relates negatively to life satisfaction and core self-evaluations (even after accounting for the dark triad's sub-dimensions) but not to self-esteem. Our findings are consistent with life history theory, considering that distal outcomes such as life satisfaction suffer most from fast life history strategies. We conclude that the dark triad has a dark core.