Dark triad traits in higher education: a review, synthesis and research directions

Purpose The impact of the dark triad (DT) personality traits (psychopathy, Machiavellianism and narcissism) in academia is gaining significant attention from scholars. The purpose of this study is to systematically explore the impact of DT personality traits on higher education systems. Design/methodology/approach This study systematically synthesises the literature of 114 articles focusing on the implications of the DT traits in higher education systems using a content analysis approach. Findings Four predominant themes were identified after an extensive content analysis of the chosen documents. This study also presented the research profiles of the selected articles. A future research agenda is proposed by identifying gaps in the extant literature. Practical implications This study has significant practical implications for academic institutions, educators, career counsellors, etc. Academic institutions should align their programs with student personalities to achieve better outcomes. Educators should consider altering teaching approaches to achieve better academic outcomes that align with students’ predominant DT traits. This study’s outcomes can help career counsellors guide students in selecting academic streams which align better with their personalities. Originality/value This study attempts to comprehensively synthesise the literature with an exclusive focus on the implications of DT traits in the higher education system. A conceptual framework was also developed to summarise the existing research. This review integrates the scattered body of knowledge in this field and provides several insightful theoretical and practical implications.