People High on Dark Triad Personality Traits Employ Distinct Defense Mechanisms

Individuals exhibiting high levels of Dark Triad personality traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—tend to employ distinct defense mechanisms such as passive aggression, denial, and autistic fantasy. The Dark Triad is contrasted with the Light Triad, which includes humanism, Kantianism, and faith in humanity, representing more prosocial traits. Both personality constellations exist on a spectrum, with individuals displaying varying degrees of each trait. Research indicates that those scoring high on the Dark Triad often experience greater insecurity in their relationships, expressing concerns about their partner's affection and feeling anxious when others get too close. This insecurity may stem from their inherent traits, which influence their relationship styles and overall interactions with others. The study referenced, titled “The Light vs. Dark Triad of Personality: Contrasting Two Very Different Profiles of Human Nature,” explored how these personality traits relate to various factors, including relationship dynamics, the Big Five personality traits, and earnings. The findings suggest that individuals with high Dark Triad traits are more likely to engage in manipulative behaviors and may struggle with trust and emotional intimacy, leading to a more tumultuous relational experience compared to those aligned with the Light Triad. Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into interpersonal relationships and the psychological mechanisms at play for individuals with these contrasting personality profiles.