Measuring the “Dark” Triad: Comparing the Five-Factor Model Antagonistic Triad Measure to Other Commonly Used Self-Report Instruments

Abstract

The “Dark” Triad (DT) refers to three personality constructs with ties to socially aversive behaviors: psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism. These constructs are commonly assessed via omnibus self-report inventories such as the Short Dark Triad (SD3) or the Dirty Dozen. Alternatively, researchers wishing to measure “dark” traits can compile stand-alone measures of each construct. Recently, the Five Factor Model Antagonistic Triad Measure (FFM ATM) was developed, which measures the DT from the perspective of the widely used Five Factor Model of personality. Initial validation studies indicated that the FFM ATM addresses common concerns with other omnibus inventories (e.g., allows for multifaceted examination of DT constructs). The current study tested the FFM ATM in relation to these other methods of measuring the DT (i.e., omnibus inventories and combinations of single-construct measures). Across three tests of validity (i.e., nomological network analysis, intraclass correlations, and incremental validity analyses), the FFM ATM showed favorable results and outperformed other measures of the DT.