Locating the Dark Triad traits within the Interpersonal Circumplex: A multicultural perspective

The Dark Triad encompasses the concepts of Machiavellianism, subclinical psychopathy, and subclinical narcissism. Since a core characteristic of the Dark Triad traits is interpersonal dysfunction, this study investigated where these traits position themselves on the interpersonal circumplex in terms of agency (“getting ahead”) and communion (“getting along”) when explored within a multi-cultural South African context. Analysis of self-report data from 280 undergraduate students revealed that Machiavellianism and psychopathy were positioned in Quadrant II (dominant-hostile), whereas narcissism was positioned in Quadrant I (dominant-friendly). These findings support the notion that the three traits each have a unique interpersonal profile and concur with the results of studies conducted in other cultures. Therefore, although the behavioural expression of the Dark Triad traits may vary in different cultures, their position on the IPC is similar to that found in other studies.