People exhibiting traits associated with psychopathy and sadism are perceived as more attractive, funnier, and kinder during initial dating encounters, according to a recent study.
Researchers from the University of Alabama conducted speed-dating events involving 129 heterosexual university students. Participants completed questionnaires to assess their levels of psychopathy and sadism before engaging in a series of eight, three-minute dates. Following each interaction, participants rated their partners on various qualities and indicated their interest in a second date.
The findings indicated that individuals who scored higher on psychopathy were chosen for a second date 53% of the time, compared to 43% for those with lower scores. Similarly, those with higher sadistic traits were selected for a second date 54% of the time, versus 42% for others.
This suggests that, over the course of eight dates, individuals with these darker traits were roughly one person more likely to secure a follow-up meeting.
"On a short first date, people seemed generally unable to spot any red flags linked to elevated psychopathy or sadism," stated Braden T. Hall, the study's lead author. The researchers theorize that individuals high in psychopathy and sadism may exhibit "agentic boldness," appearing confident, fun, and good-looking. They may also perform better in high-pressure situations like speed dating due to experiencing less anxiety.
"This may allow them to thrive in initial dating encounters as it supports coming across as sociable, carefree, and funny as opposed to fearful, overly cautious, and reticent," the study authors explained. They noted historical examples like Ted Bundy and Rodney Alcala, who allegedly used charm and attractiveness to lure victims, as anecdotal evidence supporting the idea that individuals with these traits can be successful in dating despite their underlying personality characteristics.
The study, published in the Journal of Research in Personality, also touched upon the common traits of psychopaths, which include superficial charm, a grandiose sense of self-worth, impulsiveness, pathological lying, manipulative tendencies, and a lack of remorse or empathy. While not all psychopaths become criminals, experts suggest they can be intriguing because they often mimic normal reactions and can be adept at deception.