Machiavellianism is a personality trait characterized by manipulativeness, deceitfulness, high levels of self-interest, and a tendency to see other people as means to an end. People who display especially elevated levels of Machiavellianism—referred to by some psychologists as “high-Machs”—lack empathy and take a cynical, unemotional view of the world; their primary interests center on power and status, and they’ll do whatever is necessary to achieve their goals .
Managing the Machiavellian in Your Life
Narcissism and psychopathy have received significant attention in recent years—and as a result, many people have come to believe, rightly or wrongly, that their lives have been harmed by someone with high levels of these traits. Machiavellianism, however, and the problems that may arise from the trait’s characteristic deceitful, manipulative behavior, have received considerably less attention—even though some have argued that, because of the Machiavellian tendency to scheme, connive, and play the long game, it may be the dark triad’s most troubling trait. Knowing how to spot and respond to someone with a highly Machiavellian personality could help protect you from being used toward their unsavory ends.
Because they have less of a tendency to be grandiose or impulsive, Machiavellian personalities may be harder to recognize than other dark triad traits . Yet research suggests there are some behavioral clues that could give them away—including a tendency to tell white lies when it benefits them, a desire to get close to people of high social status, and a negative, cynical outlook that assumes everyone will lie, cheat, or steal to get ahead.
It certainly can. People high in Machiavellianism tend to be deeply distrustful of others and struggle to engage in the warm, communal behavior that healthy relationships require. They may have little qualms about deceiving or manipulating someone they’re close to. Unsurprisingly, research has found that the trait is associated with lower relationship quality and reduced satisfaction.
Perhaps, but it may not be worth the trouble—both because a highly Machiavellian individual may recognize the attempt and redouble their efforts to manipulate you, and because in many cases getting caught up in their game is likely to come with social and emotional consequences. Instead, experts recommend limiting your contact with them as much as possible, setting boundaries for what you will and will not tolerate, and focusing on building relationships that bring you joy and comfort, rather than manipulation and deceit.
Explore More About Machiavellianism
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