People who have psychopathic traits earn less, finds study

A new study suggests that people with the 'dark triad' of traits which are psychopathy, narcissism and Machiavellianism may not necessarily make the best investment decisions, when compared with ‘nice guys.’

The researchers say that this is because they are often overconfident and reckless which makes them stick with bad investment decisions longer.

This adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the personality traits are not desirable in leaders.

However, this is in sharp contrast to previous studies that have suggested that people with the 'dark triad' of personality traits make the best managers.

But in a new study, researchers from the University of Denver suggest that this isn't the case. According to the lead author of the study, Dr Leanne ten Brinke, not only do these personality traits not improve performance, they many hinder it.

The study analysis revealed that managers with psychopathic traits made less profitable investments than peers, by just under one per cent a year, however, they can add up over the course of years on large investments.

The researchers further found that people who displayed behaviours associated with psychopathy were actually less likely to gain co-sponsors on their bills,' said Dr ten Brinke.

That study also showed those who displayed behaviours associated with courage, humanity, and justice, 'were the most effective political leaders.'