Dark triad traits and romantic relationship attachment, accommodation, and control

•Dark Triad traits predict attachment anxiety and avoidance.•Dark Triad traits predict constructive and destructive responses to conflict.•Dark Triad traits influence controlling behavior.

The current studies investigated the influence of Dark Triad traits (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) on women's romantic relationships. For Study 1, women (N = 122) completed the Mach IV, Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale, NPI-16, and Experiences in Close Relationships Revised Questionnaire. High secondary psychopathy and low narcissism predicted higher levels of attachment anxiety. High Machiavellianism, primary psychopathy, and secondary psychopathy each predicted higher attachment avoidance. For Study 2, women (N = 265) completed Dark Triad trait measures and the Accommodation Scale. Machiavellianism predicted lower active or passive constructive responses to a partner's destructive (or potentially destructive) behavior and lower active destructive responses. Primary psychopathy predicted greater active and passive destructive behavior whereas secondary psychopathy predicted lower active constructive responses. For Study 3, women (N = 240) completed Dark Triad trait measures and the Interpersonal Violence Control Scale. Secondary psychopathy was associated with increased levels of each form of control (control through surveillance and threats, control over everyday routines and decision making, and control over autonomous behavior). Machiavellianism and primary psychopathy also predicted increased control over autonomous behavior.