Year: 2023
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This thesis comprises an investigation into the Dark Triad, Dark Tetrad and moral decision-making. This is achieved through a systematic review, a psychometric critique and two research studies. A systematic review of the current literature concerning the Dark Triad and moral decision-making noted inconsistent evidence of the implication of these traits on moral judgements. It also highlighted issues with study methodology which are addressed in two empirical studies. The psychometric critique examined the reliability, validity, and normative sample of the Short Dark Triad Scale (SD3), and a brief commentary on the new Short Dark Tetrad Scale (SD4). It noted that while the SD3 demonstrated adequate reliability and validity, the normative sample required further development. A quantitative cross-sectional primary research study investigated individual differences in moral judgements using real-world moral scenarios. It highlighted that moral judgements were best predicted by an amalgamation of ‘dark’ and ‘light’ traits, and moral disengagement. Finally, the secondary research study utilised linguistic analysis to explore an alternative method of analysing moral judgements. It noted significant contributions of Dark Tetrad traits but emphasised issues with the methodology used. Limitations, suggestions for future research and implications of results are discussed throughout.
Author: Meere, A M
Institution: University of Nottingham
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7217843863