Are infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance related constructs? An association moderated by psychopathy and narcissism

- Infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance are attitudes related to sexual transgressions.
- The association between these sexual attitudes may result from sexual scripts that lack empathy.
- Psychopathy and narcissism, both of which embody a lack of empathy, moderated this association.

Infidelity and rape are sexual transgressions that embody self-centeredness and disregard for others. The attitudinal frameworks related to each of these sexual malfeasances-infidelity tolerance and rape myth acceptance (RMA), respectively-may both result from sexual scripts that lack empathy. We proposed that infidelity tolerance and RMA are associated constructs and that their relationship is moderated by psychopathy and narcissism, both of which are characterized by a lack of empathy. In our cross-sectional study of 262 undergraduates, the relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA was significantly moderated by both psychopathy (β = 0.125, p = 0.029) and narcissism (β = 0.133, p = 0.025). Specifically, the positive relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA was strengthened as psychopathic or narcissistic traits increased. Further, in an exploratory set of analyses, we found that the self-centered impulsivity factor of psychopathy and the exhibitionism/entitlement factor of narcissism were driving their respective interactions with RMA. Infidelity tolerance and RMA are associated, especially in people that are more likely to lack empathy. The sexual scripts of people with psychopathic and narcissistic traits should be further examined. Other sexual scripts (e.g., hostile masculinity) may also result in a positive relationship between infidelity tolerance and RMA.