Key Points: The "dark triad" of Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism may cause relationship insecurity. Recognising five detrimental tendencies helps reduce the risk of an unhealthy relationship.
Our thoughts can drift to regrettable love relationships. We've all been in that relationship—the one that lasted too long because of dread of the unknown, the one where politics tore us apart, the one where the other didn't like your closest buddy, etc. Common relationship mistakes usually only damage feelings and waste time.
However, darker partnerships exist. Sometimes they start off well, but a subtle but deadly change towards a wrong dynamic occurs. One day you wake up feeling frightened, unwanted, doubtful, or unrecognisable. In a relationship, this may indicate dark triad personality tendencies.
This black triangle includes psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism. Psychologists Paulhus and Williams coined the phrase "dark triad" in 2002 after discovering that these three personalities combined generate interpersonal issues.
The 15th-century Italian politician Niccolò Machiavelli advocated for rulers to employ deception and trickery to keep power. His name is now associated with planning and manipulation. Strategically choosing partners for social rank or income is this feature.
Psychopath conjures up images of Charles Manson and Ed Kemper. The psychopathy spectrum includes us all. Psychopaths are ruthless, irresponsible, and thrill-seekers with poor empathy.
Narcissus, a gorgeous Greek hunter, loved his mirror. Our definition of narcissism has expanded beyond vanity. Highly narcissistic people feel entitled to admiration, power, and status and may lash out if they don't obtain them.
You might imagine people would shun dark triad members. Ironically, dark triad people are skilled at making themselves look appealing, so we like those with a bit of psychopathy or domination.
Researchers found that Dark Triad highers lie more and think they're adept at it. Narcissism lies about popularity, but Machiavellianism lies more. Highly psychopathic people lie for no reason, which is most concerning.
When a partner with these features lies, you may sense something is amiss. Small or large trust erosions might damage your security.
High Dark Triad scores are thought to increase romantic relationship cheating. This is expected given their impulsivity, insensitivity, and tendency to deceive.
When psychopaths cheat, relationships disintegrate. When Machiavellians cheat more, they may keep the relationship. They may fly under the radar because of their strategic approach to everything.
Although caught, they may control their spouse better and get away with it. When your lover feels you're too controlling and driving him away, you may question if you're the bad one. Never give up! A timeless piece.
Preemptive jealousy is higher in the dark triad than in the general population.
In one study, dark triad members were more inclined to cheat and expect to be cheated on. Once in an adulterous relationship, people are more prone to want retribution by yelling at their partner or spreading rumours about them.