How the dark tetrad is associated with coping: An intensive longitudinal daily diary approach - Jaidyn Charlton (2024)

This research utilized an intensive longitudinal daily diary approach to examine the relationship between the "Dark Tetrad" personality traits—narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism—and daily coping mechanisms. By tracking participants' responses over a consecutive period, the study aimed to capture the fluid nature of how individuals with these personality profiles navigate stress and interpersonal challenges in real-time. The findings provided a nuanced look at how specific dark traits predict the selection of either adaptive or maladaptive coping strategies, such as emotional regulation versus behavioral disengagement. Unlike traditional cross-sectional studies, this daily diary methodology allowed for a closer look at the stability of these traits and their impact on day-to-day psychological functioning. The results offer significant implications for clinical practice and personality research, highlighting how dark personality structures influence the way individuals manage the stressors of everyday life. Note: Winner of the Canadian Psychological Association Certificate of Academic Excellence.