The Dark Triad: Psychopaths, Narcissists and Machiavellians in the Workplace

by Brendan Coleman, Victor Dulewicz

Overview

The Dark Triad: Psychopaths, Narcissists, and Machiavellians in the Workplace offers an incisive examination of the underlying forces behind much of today’s institutional dysfunction. With penetrating and measured analysis, the authors explore the troubling existence within organisations of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy—aversive personality traits often hiding beneath thinly polished veneers of professionalism, and competence.

Rigorous analysis from authors Brendan Coleman and Victor Dulewicz reveals how these cunning, manipulative, and ruthless individuals ascend to power, leaving behind a trail of ethical compromise and damaged cultures. Drawing on compelling case studies, they illustrate how such personalities operate, from calculated charm to cold self-interest, and how their behaviours take root and flourish within modern institutions. Having read the book, the reader will learn how to, Identify Dark Triad traits in colleagues and leaders; Understand the psychological mechanisms and motivations behind their actions; Recognize signs of manipulation and deceit as well as; Develop strategies to protect themselves, their colleagues, and the broader organisation. A thought-provoking read for professionals and academics with an interest in corporate governance, as well as the lay person who wants to know more about what makes these individuals tick.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781836620570
Publisher:	Emerald Publishing Limited
Publication date:	07/17/2025
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	5.43(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.37(d)

About the Author

Brendan Coleman has spent over 30 years working in large international organisations in a variety of roles. With a doctorate from Henley Business School, he is now an author and Chartered Organisational Psychologist advising on the presence of the Dark Triad in the workplace.

Victor Dulewicz is Managing Partner of VDA Consultants and Emeritus Professor at Henley Business School where he has been Head of HRM & OB and Director of the Centre for Board Effectiveness. Previously, he worked as a Chartered Occupational Psychologist for Rank Xerox, the Civil Service Department and STC Telecoms Group.

Table of Contents

Foreword; Ben Van Den Assem
Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Psychopathy
Chapter 3. Narcissism
Chapter 4. Machiavellianism
Chapter 5. Measuring Individuals’ Dark Triad Personalities
Chapter 6. Proposed Management Actions for Dealing with the Dark Triad
Chapter 7. The Dark Side of Organisations, Toxic Cultures and How Dark Triad Personalities Contribute
Chapter 8. Concluding Thoughts