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Measuring the dark core of personality
Morten Moshagen1, Ingo Zettler2, Benjamin E Hilbig3
1Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education.
Psychological Assessment
|October 16, 2019
Summary
The Dark Factor of Personality (D) can now be assessed more concisely. New item sets offer a reliable and valid measurement of this core personality trait, simplifying previous complex methods.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Personality Science
Background:
- The Dark Factor of Personality (D) represents the core of malevolent, antagonistic traits.
- Previous assessments of D were indirect and labor-intensive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop psychometrically sound and concise item sets for assessing the Dark Factor of Personality (D).
Main Methods:
- Rational item selection techniques were applied.
- Analysis involved seven large, heterogeneous samples (N > 165,000).
Main Results:
- Identified three item sets (70, 35, and 16 items) for assessing D.
- All sets demonstrated high internal consistency and retest-reliability.
- Item sets showed strong associations with behavioral criteria and justifying beliefs.
Conclusions:
- The identified item sets provide a concise, reliable, and valid method for measuring the Dark Factor of Personality (D).
- This facilitates broader research and application of D.
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