Sexy deeds done dark? Examining the relationship between dark personality traits and sexual motivation

Abstract The Dark Tetrad is composed of four related subclinical personality traits: narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and sadism. Using Life History Theory (LHT) as a framework, the current study examined Dark Tetrad traits as predictors of a variety of sexual motivations and goals. Participants ( N  = 345) were recruited from a large southern U.S. university and completed Dark Tetrad measures and scales related to various self- and partner-focused motivations for sex. Results indicated that greater Machiavellianism was associated with being motivated to have sex for selfish reasons (for self-image concerns, to enhance the self, for stress relief and to exert power, and for pleasure), but also with partner-oriented motives (to give the partner power, and fostering emotional connection with a partner). Moreover, greater psychopathy was associated with being motivated to have sex for stress relief; conversely, greater psychopathy was associated with less partner-focused motivations. No effects were found for narcissism and sadism. Consistent with LHT, these results augment our understanding of the sexual and interpersonal experiences of those endorsing Dark Tetrad traits.