Dark Triad Traits in Political Ideologies: Symptoms of Clinical or Subclinical Disorders

Studies conclude that while the Dark Triad traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism) often overlap with some aspects of personality disorders, they exist on a spectrum, and the Dark Triad traits are typically considered subclinical, meaning they are present but not at a level that causes significant impairment in functioning. It's essential to note that there often is overlaps between the traits of the Dark Triad and personality disorders.

Some studies suggest a link between Dark Triad traits and conservatism, while others find that these traits also can be seen in libertarian ideologies, especially those emphasizing extreme individualism as core principles. Some found social Darwinism linked dysfunctional psychological characteristics and ideologies contributing to traits found in the Dark Triad. Dark Triad traits also correlate with support for the alt-right and right-wing authoritarianism. Although studies exist explaining these findings, certain groups request further research to fully understand the specific mechanisms by which of these traits influence political attitudes and behaviors.

This is mainly because they cannot accept soft science in the medical field that finds certain ideologies stem from clinical or subclinical mental disorders due to concerns over stigmatization and preemptive intervention. Instead, they prefer dialectical materialism or other ideologies that avoid acknowledging psychological factors as justification for behavior and ideologies. This denial is seen as cognitive rigidity or confirmation bias, which are subclinical symptoms of cognitive disorders that can too benefit from intervention and support. Refusal to acknowledge this could be a sign of certain Dark Triad traits, as studies find that the Dark Triad is not limited to the right but vices of character.

For states that require ideological purity for politics, many are on the right track but don't go far enough to treat the mental health issue and often exclude certain light triad trait ideologies over policies and irreconcilable principle differences. These states are often met with harsh criticism and resistance by both light and dark triad traits ideological political advocates, occasionally falling to see the benefits. The political, medical, and social world have a long way to go in merging for the benefit of humanity and the planet.

Over the years I've read many articles and studies on this. These were just a few I could find.

Right-wing Ideologies and the Dark Triad:










The Dark Triad and disorders







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