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Narcissism, manipulation & psychopathy test

How dark is your dark side?

Everyone has a little narcissism, a little strategy, and a little 'I don't care.' 15 questions measure your mix of the three 'dark triad' traits. Be honest. Nobody's watching.

~2 min3 stepsFree, no sign-upAnswers never leave your device
3traits in the 'dark triad', a model psychologists have studied since 2002
4.5%estimated rate of psychopathy in the general adult population (2021 meta-analysis), though estimates vary widely by measure
SpectrumDark traits exist in everyone in small amounts. Disorders are rare.

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What is Dark Side Check?

Dark Side Check is a free test of the 'dark triad', three personality traits psychologists have studied since 2002: narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy.

Everyone has some of each. The test shows your mix and which trait is strongest, from golden retriever to full dark triad.

How to use the test

  1. Pick your vibe. The tone changes the jokes, never the result.
  2. Answer 8 questions about ego and strategy. Be honest; nobody sees your answers.
  3. Answer 7 about risk and remorse. Think about how you usually act, not your best day.
  4. See your dark side, then dare a friend.

What the questions look at

Narcissism

Wanting admiration, feeling special

Machiavellianism

Strategic manipulation, cynicism

Psychopathy

Thrill-seeking, low guilt and empathy

How we score it

Each question feeds one of three scores from 0 to 100%. Some statements count when you agree and some when you disagree. Your type is your highest trait if it's 40% or more; under 40% on everything is 'The Golden Retriever', and 60% or more on all three is 'The Full Dark Triad'.

The three-trait model comes from Paulhus and Williams (2002). The questions are original to this site. They have not been validated in a clinical study and can't diagnose a personality disorder.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder?

Narcissism is a personality trait everyone has to some degree. Narcissistic personality disorder is a rare clinical condition that causes serious, long-lasting problems and can only be diagnosed by a professional.

Can this tell me if my partner or parent is a narcissist?

No. Tests like this measure how people describe themselves. If someone in your life is controlling or hurtful, a therapist or a hotline is a better place to start.

Is psychopathy the same as being violent?

No. Psychopathy as a trait is about boldness, impulsivity and low empathy. Most people with higher scores are not violent.

If I'm worried I'm a narcissist, does that mean I'm not?

Not necessarily, but being willing to reflect on how you affect others is a good sign either way.

Do you save my answers?

No. Everything runs in your browser. Nothing you answer is sent to us or anyone else.

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Sources

  • Paulhus & Williams, Journal of Research in Personality, 2002: the dark triad of personality.
  • Sanz-García et al., Frontiers in Psychology, 2021: meta-analysis estimating psychopathy at 4.5% of the general adult population.