Single status linked to higher psychopathic traits, study finds

Can a psychopath be identified? According to scientists, the answer is yes. Some analyses suggest that individuals with psychopathic personality traits are characterised by an unusual, instantly engaging personal charm, which is, however, superficial, and a lack of empathy. You can also find information online advising you to pay attention to the demeanour of someone you suspect might be a psychopath.

Today, however, we will look at research conducted by scientists from Turin, who highlighted a completely different and surprising aspect.

Scientists conducted a study on a group of 1,101 people. The respondents were analysed in terms of the so-called dark triad, which includes narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism. The collected data showed that single people have higher levels of psychopathic traits. People in stable relationships have fewer manipulative tendencies and also lower levels of psychopathy.

"The personality traits belonging to the Dark Triad are characterised by strong egocentrism, manipulative behaviour, and low morals. Individuals with these socially unfavourable traits have greater difficulty empathising with and considering the needs of others, which is essential for fostering loving interpersonal relationships, although they often succeeded in attracting partners," the research conducted by the Turin scientists is quoted by ladbible.com.

The researchers also emphasised that people in relationships more often exhibit narcissistic traits. Although they have trouble maintaining close relations, in a broader sense, narcissists can satisfy their need for power or dominance, partly due to having a partner. What else did the analyses show? Traits of the "dark triad" are more commonly found in men than women.