The Dark Tetrad of personality and the tendency to engage in revenge porn

Abstract

Revenge porn is an increasing and pervasive phenomenon. Despite this, the knowledge and understanding of this behaviour is limited, especially the psychological characteristics of perpetrators of revenge porn. The Dark Tetrad of personality: Machiavellianism, psychopathy, narcissism, and sadism, has been associated with a range of antisocial behaviours. Recent research indicates a relationship between the Dark Tetrad and revenge porn proclivity. The present study extended these findings by investigating the relationship between revenge porn proclivity and the Dark Tetrad using more trait-specific measures. A community sample of 306 participants, aged 18-77, were recruited online. Participants completed a series of personality measures assessing the Dark Tetrad and the Revenge Porn Proclivity Scale. Results show a significant positive correlation between the Dark Tetrad and the propensity to engage in revenge porn, as hypothesised. Additionally, multiple regression analysis shows the overall model significantly predicts revenge porn proclivity, however, sadism was the only independent predictor of proclivity. These findings add to the understanding of the psychological characteristics of perpetrators. The practical implications are discussed in relation to addressing the approval of this behaviour and informing prevention, intervention, and education strategies. The limitations of this study and recommendations for future research are also discussed.