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The incremental validity of the dark triad in predicting driving aggression
Vlad Burtăverde1, Mihaela Chraif1, Mihai Aniţei1
1Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Bucharest Panduri Avenue, no. 90, Bucharest, Romania.
Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|August 1, 2016
Summary
The Dark Triad personality traits, including Machiavellianism, Narcissism, and Psychopathy, are linked to aggressive driving. Psychopathy significantly predicts aggressive driving, even when controlling for Big Five personality factors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Traffic Psychology
Background:
- Aggressive driving is a significant public safety concern.
- Understanding the psychological underpinnings of aggressive driving is crucial for prevention.
- The Dark Triad traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy) are associated with antisocial behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between Dark Triad traits and aggressive driving.
- To determine the incremental validity of the Dark Triad in predicting aggressive driving.
- To investigate the mediating role of the Dark Triad in the relationship between Big Five personality factors and aggressive driving.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted with undergraduate students (N=274) and amateur drivers (N=95).
- Participants completed self-report measures of the Dark Triad, Big Five personality factors, and aggressive driving.
- Statistical analyses were used to assess associations, incremental validity, and mediation.
Main Results:
- All Dark Triad traits were significantly associated with aggressive driving in both studies.
- The Dark Triad incrementally predicted aggressive driving beyond the Big Five personality factors.
- Psychopathy emerged as the strongest predictor of aggressive driving.
- Machiavellianism and Psychopathy mediated the influence of Emotional Stability, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness on aggressive driving.
Conclusions:
- The Dark Triad traits are robust predictors of aggressive driving behavior.
- Psychopathy is a key personality correlate of aggressive driving.
- Targeting Dark Triad traits may offer novel avenues for interventions aimed at reducing aggressive driving.
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