Last Updated on April 20, 2026 by Sanjana Kahol
We often think that we choose our careers based on what we’re good at, what we like or what opportunities are available. A new study says that our personality traits, especially the not-so-good ones, might also play a role in what kind of work we are drawn to.
Researchers found that people with traits like manipulation, lack of empathy or a strong desire for power often referred to as the ” triad” tend to prefer certain careers. These findings were published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences. Give us a new perspective on workplace behavior and career paths.
What is the dark triad?
The dark triad is a group of three personality traits: psychopathy, Machiavellianism and narcissism. These traits are linked to behaviors like manipulation, self-centeredness acting on impulse and a lack of empathy.
For example:.
- Psychopathy was divided into boldness, meanness and disinhibition.
- Boldness means being confident and fearless.
- Meanness means lacking empathy.
- Disinhibition means being impulsive.
- Machiavellianism includes having views about people and using manipulative tactics.
- Narcissism was split into admiration and rivalry.
How the study was conducted
The research involved over 600 students from the U.S. University. They first completed personality assessments. Then answered questions about their career interests.
These interests were grouped into five categories:
- Health science
- Technology
- Fields
- Leadership roles
- Nature-based work
Researchers then used network analysis to examine how personality traits and career preferences were connected.
Real-life example: personality influencing choices
Think of two students choosing their careers. One enjoys being in control, influencing others and being in the spotlight. Another prefers working with machines or creating art independently.
The first student may be more drawn to leadership roles or careers in business or politics. The second might lean toward technical fields. These choices may not just reflect interests. Deeper personality tendencies.
What the findings reveal
The study found patterns linking certain traits to career interests:
People with boldness, a trait linked to psychopathy, showed interest in health science fields.
Those with meanness characterized by empathy were more drawn to technology and mechanical work. Individuals with disinhibition or impulsivity were linked to fields such as art and design. Machiavellian traits were associated with leadership and influence. People who scored high in thinking were more likely to prefer roles involving strategy, control or working independently. Narcissistic traits, the need for admiration and competition were strongly linked to careers involving influence, recognition and creative expression.
Why this matters
Understanding the link between personality and career choices can help organizations and individuals make decisions. Employers may become more aware of risks when hiring for leadership roles.
For career counselors these insights could be useful in guiding individuals toward roles that align with their personalities while encouraging behaviors.
Limitations of the study
The study was based on students, not working professionals. This means the findings may not fully reflect real-world workplace dynamics. More research is needed to confirm whether the same patterns exist across industries and age groups.
Final thoughts
This study highlights that career choices may be influenced by more than skills and interests. Personality traits, including ones, can quietly shape the paths we choose.
While having traits does not define a person completely understanding them can help create healthier workplaces and more informed career decisions.
Read the press release here: Source