Some people cut corners. Others manipulate. A few take pleasure in cruelty. Psychologists have long studied these dark personality traits individually, but researchers now argue they share a common root. They call it the D factor—a unifying thread behind narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and more. Like general intelligence, this dark core influences a range of behaviors, from selfishness to outright malice. The implications? Understanding D might help predict—and possibly curb—harmful actions. And if you’re curious, you can even test your own D factor.
If you’d like to learn more, the article from Science Alert is a good place to start.
