When the Dark Employee Takes an Irrational Turn: Exploring the Intersection of Dark Personality Traits and Work-Related Beliefs

Abstract

An individual’s disposition towards work is influenced by various factors, including cognitive perception of reality. The attitudes individuals hold towards work are not always based on rational thinking and are also influenced by personality traits. Current research findings suggest that personality traits predict irrational beliefs, which in turn lead to different forms of maladjustment. These personality traits, commonly referred to as the Dark Triad, encompass Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy. These traits exhibit several shared characteristics with workaholism, a condition associated with irrational beliefs pertaining to work performance. This study aimed to explore the associations between irrational beliefs regarding work and the aversive personality traits. The results indicated a positive correlation between Machiavellianism and work-related irrational beliefs, particularly in relation to failure and control. Narcissism exhibited a positive association with co-workers’ approval. Psychopathy demonstrated a significant positive correlation with control and a negative correlation with performance demands. Regression models were employed to explain the variance in work-related irrational beliefs, ranging from 5.4 to 8.3%. This research builds upon previous studies that have examined workaholism, irrational beliefs, and personality traits, mostly Big Five. By linking the Dark Triad to specific irrational beliefs about work, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how detrimental personality traits can influence workplace dynamics and individual work attitudes, extending beyond the broader categories typically studied under the Big Five personality traits. This insight is valuable for developing targeted interventions to address and mitigate the impact of these traits in professional settings.