Sex differences in the dark triad and the association with relationship satisfaction

Abstract

Objective To examine the sex differences in the dark triad and its association with relationship satisfaction. Methods Totally 490 participants from institutions and corporations were assessed by Mach-Ⅳ, Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale (LSRP), Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS) and Big Five Inventory (BFI-20). Statistical analysis was performed by correlation analysis, t test and hierarchical regression analysis. Results The scores of Relationship Assessment and dark triad were shown as follows: relationship assessment (27.63±5.09), Machiavellism (53.52±8.02), psychopathy (38.45±7.52), narcissistic (18.41±7.27). Men scored higher than women in dark triad (tMachiavellism=3.226, tPsychopathy=3.070, tNarcissistic=2.900, all P<0.01). There were significant correlations between machiavellism and psychopathy, and also between psychopathy and narcissistic(r=-0.170-0.572). Linear regression showed that Machiavellism and psychopathy were consistent negatively associated with relationship satisfaction for both men and women (bMachiavellism-men=-0.104, tMachiavellism-men=-2.352, bPsychopathy-men=-0.131, tPsychopathy-men=-2.739, bMachiavellism-women=-0.121, tMachiavellism-women=-2.662; bPsychopathy-women=-0.106, tPsychopathy-women=-2.189, all P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in narcissism between male and female. Conclusion For the dark triad, there are obviously sex differences and its association with relationship satisfaction are partly confirmed. Key words: Machiavellism; Psychopathy; Narcissism; Relationship satisfaction; Big five personality