Narcissism in Leadership

Narcissism is considered a widespread phenomenon at leadership levels, where it is represented disproportionately compared to the general population. Furthermore, younger emerging (leadership) talents exhibit significantly higher levels of narcissism than older generations have shown to date. At the same time, traits of the Dark Triad (narcissism, machiavellianism, and psychopathy) often do not occur in isolation, but rather in combination. For this reason, companies should rethink their personnel selection, management, and development practices today. This analysis will therefore highlight the characteristics and behavior patterns of ruthless individuals from the Dark Triad, as well as possible approaches for intervention and prevention.