The relationship between the dark triad personality traits, motivation, mood states, and exercise dependence

Exercise dependence occurs when an individual loses control of their exercise behaviour resulting in adverse consequences to their health and overall well-being. This study examined the relationship between dark personality traits, motivation, and mood states in exercise dependence. Using an online questionnaire and cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 486 South African university students aged 18–62. Based on the results of Pearson’s correlation and standard multiple regression, we found direct and positive relationships between exercise dependence, dark personality traits, motivation, and two mood states. In addition, task orientation ( β = .296, p < .001), vigour ( β = .261, p < .001), psychopathy ( β = .252, p < .001), and ego orientation ( β = .122, p = .029) predict exercise dependence. Research findings expand on exercise dependence literature and have profound theoretical implications.