Validation of the Short Dark Triad in a German Sample Structure, Nomological Network, and an Ultrashort Version

The structure, correlates, and assessment of the Dark Triad are widely discussed in several fields of psychology. Based on the German version of the Short Dark Triad (SDT), we add to this by (a) providing a competitive test of existing structural models, (b) testing the nomological network, and (c) proposing an ultrashort 9-item version of the SDT (uSDT). A sample of N = 969 participants provided data on the SDT and a range of further measures. Our competitive test of five structural models revealed that fit indices and nomological network assumptions were best met in a three-factor model, with separate factors for psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism. The results provided an extensive overview of the raw, unique, and shared associations of Dark Triad dimensions with narcissism facets, sadism, impulsivity, self-esteem, sensation seeking, the Big Five, maladaptive personality traits, sociosexual orientation, and behavioral criteria. Finally, the uSDT exhibited satisfactory psychometric properties. The highest overlap in expected relations between SDT and uSDT, and convergent and discriminant measures was also found for the three-factor model. Our study underlines the utility of a three-factor model of the Dark Triad, extends findings on its nomological network, and provides an ultrashort instrument.

Automated summary

The study examined the structure, correlates, and assessment of the Dark Triad using a German version of the Short Dark Triad (SDT) and proposed an ultrashort 9-item version (uSDT). Results indicated that a three-factor model best fit the data, and provided insights into the relationships between Dark Triad dimensions and other psychological traits. The study highlights the utility of the three-factor model, extends understanding of the Dark Triad's nomological network, and presents a new brief instrument for assessment.