Predicting perpetration of intimate partner cyberstalking: Gender and the Dark Tetrad

Abstract

Stalking behaviours performed against former and current intimate partners account for the majority of reported stalking situations, are continuously increasing, and can result in physical, psychological, and financial distress. The rise of technology has led to increased access to personal information and thus has facilitated the ease of stalking an intimate partner online (i.e., cyberstalking). However, the literature indicates a lack of clarity regarding predictive factors of perpetration of intimate partner cyberstalking behaviour. The current study aimed to predict perpetration of intimate partner cyberstalking from the variables of gender and Dark Tetrad personality traits (i.e., Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism). Participants (N = 689; 30% men, 70% women) completed an online questionnaire. Gender was a significant predictor of intimate partner cyberstalking, with women being more likely to engage in this behaviour. All Dark Tetrad traits were found to be significant predictors of intimate partner cyberstalking. Results of the current study contribute to the growing body of literature on personality and online behaviours. Identification of factors that influence individuals to engage in intimate partner cyberstalking could be beneficial in cyberstalking interventions.