Internet trolling is driven by specific dark triad personality traits
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 78/100
Empirical studies consistently demonstrate that internet trolling is driven by dark personality traits, particularly the Dark Tetrad (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism).
Evidence for · 4
The differential effect of psychopathy on active and bystander trolling behaviors: the role of dark tetrad traits and lower agreeableness.
2024 · cited by 2
The study demonstrates that Dark Tetrad traits, particularly psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism, predict active online trolling behaviors.
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More for · 3
Not only Trolls are Trolling the Internet: A study on dark personality traits, online environment, and commentary styles
2020 · cited by 2
Research shows that internet trolling significantly co-varies with dark personality traits such as sadism and Machiavellianism.
Do Dark Humour Users Have Dark Tendencies? Relationships between Dark Humour, the Dark Tetrad, and Online Trolling.
2024 · cited by 1
Findings confirm that online trolling and dark humour enjoyment are closely linked to dark personality traits like sadism.
Cyberpsychopathy: A Multidimensional Framework for Understanding Psychopathic Traits in Digital Environments.
2025 · cited by 0
A systematic review of psychopathy and aversive personality traits in digital environments identifies trolling as a core expression of cyberpsychopathy.