THE ROLE OF LONELINESS, COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY, AND INTERPERSONAL PROBLEM-SOLVING IN PREDICTING DARK TRIAD PERSONALITY OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This study focuses on the variables that predict dark triad personality traits in university students. These variables are loneliness, cognitive flexibility, and interpersonal problem-solving. One hundred and sixty-six university students aged between 18-27 were recruited for this study. Data were collected using the dark triad scale, UCLA loneliness scale, cognitive flexibility scale, and interpersonal problem-solving inventory. Findings show that loneliness, cognitive flexibility and interpersonal problem solving together predict dark triad personality traits.The author observed that these variables explained 16% of the total variance in the machiavellian personality trait, 14% of the total variance in the narcissism personality trait, and 8% of the total variance in the psychopathy personality trait. More specifically; cognitive flexibility and lack of self-confidence predicted positively machiavellianism. On the other hand, constructive problem-solving predicts machiavellianism negatively and significantly.. Taking no responsibility and approaching the problem negatively predict narcissism positively and significantly. Finally, the psychopathy personality trait is only positively predicted by the self-confident approach variable. The findings were discussed in the light of the current study, and recommendations were made for future research.