My research looks at the Dark Triad traits in a novel way – that is investigating them as multifaceted and how this relates to individual differences in coping with stress and psychopathology.

Much of the current research has neglected the multidimensional nature of the dark triad personality traits. Research has shown that different facets of these traits have differentially related to outcome measures like coping with stress and psychopathology. However, much of the literature is still measuring and interpreting these traits as unidimensional. This project aims to provide a comprehensive investigation of these traits using more valid measurements and interpretations. It is also important that within this project we provide the associations with outcome measures like coping with stress and psychopathology given their relevance to society today. This is even more relevant when we consider the emerging evidence that personality traits develop as a function of the complexity of society. Therefore, at one time or another, these dark traits were needed in our society, could this mean that they have an adaptive functioning during times of stress? Additionally, I am also interested in how using novel and more appropriate methods (experience sampling methods) and analysis (Network Analysis) may lead to more fruitful and insightful interpretations.