The Evil Side of Human Nature in Athletes the Dark Triad: An Examination of Narcissism, Machiavellianism and Psychopathy

This study aimed to explore the narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy levels of athletes in different branches (wrestling, tennis, football, swimming) according to various variables. The study was designed as a cross-sectional quantitative study. The convenience sampling method was used to determine the research sample. One hundred ninety-two (192) athletes who do sports in different branches in Istanbul participated in the study. In the study as the data collection tool, the Dark Triad Trait scale was used. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent samples t-test, and ANOVA statistical techniques were used to analyze the data. According to the findings obtained in the study, it was seen that there were significant differences in the comparison between the age, gender, educational status, and economic status of the athletes and the dark triad sub-dimensions. Besides, there was no significant difference in the comparison made by the athletes according to the branch they were interested in. As a result of the research, it was seen that the mean scores of Machiavellianism and narcissism of the athletes were at high levels, and the levels of psychopathy were moderate. In addition, it was determined that there was a high level of positive correlation between the athletes' narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy levels. Based on this result, it can be said that athletes with high levels of Machiavellianism exhibit acts of self-interest and deception, while high levels of narcissism tend to be arrogant, insensitive, and incapable of empathy. It was estimated that the cause for these behaviors of the athletes was the result of their efforts to achieve success and goals.