Four Reasons to Dump the Dark Triad Label

Key points

The term “dark triad” has gained immense popularity in the literature, both lay and scientific.

A team of personality researchers explains why it’s time to drop the term entirely.

By understanding what’s wrong with it, you can move on to a clearer understanding of its core features.

You’ve undoubtedly heard the term “ dark triad ,” the unpalatable collection of the three personality traits of psychopathy , narcissism , and Machiavellianism (tendency to exploit and manipulate others). The “dark” in this term is self-explanatory, and if you know someone who fits the definition, you’d certainly agree that it seems appropriate. So, why would researchers in this very field decide to excise it from psychology’s vocabulary?

The Problem with the Dark Triad Label

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