Gender Differences in Dark Triad Traits Among Post-Pandemic Youth

Abstract

The present study examines gender differences in Dark Triad personality traits—Machiavellianism, Narcissism, and Psychopathy—among Indian post-pandemic youth. With the Short Dark Triad (SD3) scale of Jones and Paulhus, the responses were collected from 150 participants (75 males and 75 females) aged between 15 and 29 years. Null hypothesis that no gender differences exist in Dark Triad traits was contrasted against the alternative hypothesis of considerable gender differences in one or more of the three traits. Statistical contrast with independent t-tests revealed that males scored significantly greater on psychopathy and Machiavellianism, but there was no difference in narcissism. The findings are in line with existing research that has reported gender disparities in dark personality features and contribute to a rich comprehension of post-pandemic behavioural patterns. The implications of the findings are discussed in light of psychological assessment, personality development, and gender studies.