Individuals exhibiting psychopathic traits may possess an unexpected advantage in the early stages of romantic relationships, appearing more charming and attractive on first dates, according to a study by University of Alabama scientists.
The research, published in the Journal of Research in Personality, found that people higher in psychopathy and sadism were rated as exhibiting desirable characteristics such as humor, charm, and physical attractiveness.
To explore this phenomenon, researchers recruited 129 heterosexual university students who completed questionnaires measuring their levels of psychopathy and sadism. These participants then engaged in a speed-dating event, with eight three-minute encounters. Following each interaction, participants evaluated their partners on traits like humor, kindness, and attractiveness, and indicated their interest in a second date.
The study revealed that individuals with high levels of psychopathy were selected for a second date 53% of the time, a 10% increase compared to those with below-average levels. Similarly, participants with sadistic characteristics were chosen for subsequent dates 54% of the time, against 42% for non-sadists.
Researchers theorize that individuals with high psychopathy and sadism may be less affected by the anxiety of high-pressure situations like speed dating. This composure could allow them to appear more sociable, carefree, and funny, traits that can be used to manipulate others. The study authors noted that on short first dates, it appears difficult for people to identify red flags associated with elevated psychopathy or sadism.
While the study highlights these findings, it also notes that clinical levels of psychopathy are rare, estimated to affect about 1% of the general population. Psychopathy is also described as existing on a spectrum, with most individuals scoring somewhere in the middle, and not all individuals with psychopathic traits are violent.
Previous anecdotal evidence and popular culture have sometimes portrayed psychopaths, such as Ted Bundy and Rodney Alcala, as using charisma and attractiveness to deceive others. A 2025 German study also suggested a correlation between frequent users of dating apps and higher levels of psychopathy.