An expert has identified an unexpected indicator that your partner might exhibit psychopathic behavior.
Researchers in Germany have pinpointed a potential sign that could suggest your partner has psychopathic tendencies.
While the stereotypical image of a psychopath is often shaped by media like horror movies, TV dramas, and true-crime series, psychopathy is actually marked by a profound lack of empathy and a tendency to be manipulative yet charming.
Experts suggest that having a notably ‘successful’ history on dating apps might be another warning sign.
A study featured in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking explored the connection between dating app usage and various psychological traits.
The research utilized a concept known as the ‘life history theory’. Individuals with a ‘fast life history’ are inclined towards short-term relationships, whereas those with a ‘slow life history’ are more likely to seek long-term commitments.
“Individuals who have elevated levels of traits associated with a fast life history (like the Dark Triad/Tetrad traits, or sociosexuality) use visual social media platforms more intensely,” study author Lennart Freyth shared with PsyPost.
“When I embarked on my research into dating apps and social media, I delved into theoretical frameworks explaining our behaviors.
“Considering personality a behavioral disposition, I was indeed wondering: Why was nobody going for the most obvious elements of dating apps?”
To carry out the study, the researchers enlisted 495 adults, aged 16 to 70, who completed questionnaires designed to assess ‘Dark Triad’ personality traits such as narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy.
Participants were also questioned about their attitudes towards casual sex, sexual desire, and their past sexual history.
The survey further asked whether they used dating apps and if they had engaged in sexual activity with someone they met through an app.
By analyzing the data, the researchers were able to connect different personality traits with various outcomes.
The findings revealed that individuals who used dating apps and had sexual encounters with someone they met online were generally younger and scored higher on Dark Triad personality traits.
Overall, those with ‘fast life’ strategies showed more success on dating platforms.
“There is a general pattern that emerges when investigating social media use and associated personality traits,” Freyth explained to PsyPost.
“Individuals with elevated levels of traits linked to a fast life history (such as the Dark Triad/Tetrad traits, or sociosexuality) use visual social media platforms more intensely. They report more dates and sexual experiences—particularly men high in psychopathy and sociosexuality.”
The researchers acknowledged certain limitations within the study, primarily the reliance on self-reported data.
For instance, it’s noted that men might exaggerate and women may understate their experiences.