A new study suggests that people with "dark triad" personality traits—psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism—are often perceived as more trustworthy because they appear more attractive. The research, published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences, reveals that these individuals’ physical appearance may subtly disarm our instincts, leading to a perception of trustworthiness that doesn’t match their true nature.
In a series of four experiments involving nearly 600 participants, researchers asked individuals to judge strangers' faces through rating tasks and simulated trust games. Time and again, people with high levels of dark triad traits were seen as more trustworthy based on their facial appearance alone.
Dr. Qi Wu, lead author and psychologist at Hunan Normal University, China, explained: "In short-term cooperative settings, individuals with high Dark Triad traits tend to inspire more trust, partly due to being seen as more attractive based on their facial features." This phenomenon persisted even when other characteristics like dominance, extraversion, and attractiveness were accounted for, indicating that facial features uniquely influence perceived trustworthiness.
Psychology professor Jason Walker of Adler University in Chicago, who studies the dark triad, said the findings highlight the danger of the “halo effect”—a psychological shortcut where people unconsciously link attractiveness with positive traits, including trust.
"We're hardwired to associate attractiveness with trust," Walker said. "This becomes quite dangerous when it collides with 'dark triad' personalities, who often know and use it to their advantage. These individuals will present as polished, confident, and even charming."
Walker added that individuals with dark triad traits are often skilled at social performance. "They have mastered the art of performance: they know how to look like the ideal high-performing teammate or a visionary leader, but they're actually consolidating power and manipulating people's perception."
Psychopathy, characterized by a lack of empathy and impulsivity, might seem inherently untrustworthy. However, individuals with this trait can be highly charming and socially strategic. Similarly, narcissists often exhibit confidence and polished self-presentation, while Machiavellians are skilled at reading social cues and manipulating perceptions. These combined traits can make dark triad individuals appear exceptionally appealing in short or superficial interactions.
Walker warned against being deceived by first impressions: "Attractiveness may open the door, but sustained trust should be earned through consistency, humility, and integrity, not charisma or a curated image." He advised paying attention to how people with dark triad traits treat those with less power, as this can reveal their true character.
The study's findings also shed light on real-world patterns, such as how people with dark triad traits often rise to leadership roles or gain social influence, at least in the short term. This dynamic is evident in popular culture, where charismatic individuals often mask their darker intentions.
For example, Netflix’s hit series YOU features Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who also happens to be a stalker and serial killer. Despite his violent nature, Goldberg’s polished and charming appearance often leaves fans rooting for him—a reaction the actor, Penn Badgley, has criticized. "He is a murderer," Badgley has repeatedly pointed out, pushing back against romanticized perceptions of his character.
The study also contextualizes the public’s fascination with notorious serial killers like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer, both of whom were described as attractive and charismatic—qualities that may have helped them evade suspicion.
Interestingly, while recent research suggests that people with high dark triad traits may seem more trustworthy due to their facial features, previous studies indicate that people struggle to accurately identify these traits. For example, a 2018 study found that participants could identify high narcissism reliably but had difficulty spotting psychopathy in women or Machiavellianism in either gender.
In practical terms, Walker cautioned that while someone’s looks might initially inspire trust, building meaningful relationships should go beyond appearances. "True character is revealed in how someone engages with people they don't need to impress," he said.
By being mindful of how attractive individuals present themselves and examining their consistency over time, people can better protect themselves from falling prey to dark triad personalities.
