The dark triad and honesty rules in romantic relationships

The Dark Triad of personality (Machiavellianism, Narcissism and Psychopathy) was explored in relation to honesty rules in romantic relationships. These traits have been found to predict deception in romantic relationships, lower relationship commitment, and preference for short-term relationships. Given these findings, the Dark Triad was expected to predict stronger endorsement of discretionary honesty rules that are flexible on deception, but weaker endorsement of obligatory rules that are strict on honesty. Participants completed the Short Dark Triad scale (SD3) and reported their endorsement of honesty rules in romantic relationships. Results indicated that Machiavellianism and Psychopathy predicted stronger endorsement of discretionary rules, while only Psychopathy predicted weaker endorsement of obligatory rules. Implications of these findings are discussed.