Published on: March 13, 2023
Updated on: March 13, 2025
Author: Kentucky Counseling Center
Understanding Machiavellianism: Traits, Origins, and Impact
Is Machiavellianism similar to Narcissism? What are its defining characteristics? Individuals with Machiavellian personalities tend to exhibit manipulative behaviors, exploit others for personal gain, and prioritize power over morality.
This article will help you understand how Machiavellianism is recognized and offer coping strategies if you or someone you know exhibits these traits. Learning about dark personality traits like Machiavellianism can deepen your understanding of personality disorders and help safeguard your interpersonal relationships.
Where Did Machiavellian Traits Come From?
The term “Machiavellian” originates from the works of Niccolò Machiavelli, a 16th-century political philosopher. His book The Prince promoted the idea that deception and cunning were justifiable for maintaining power.
Initially, Machiavellianism was considered a political strategy, but in psychology, it is now classified as one of the three “Dark Triad” personality traits, alongside Narcissism and Psychopathy. These traits are called “dark” due to their manipulative and unethical nature.
Machiavellians in leadership positions often foster competitive, cutthroat environments, placing personal gain above ethical considerations. Understanding these tendencies can help individuals and organizations develop strategies to mitigate their negative impact.
How Machiavellianism Affects Leadership
Traits of a Machiavellian Leader
Machiavellian leaders often:
- Use manipulation and deceit to achieve personal or professional goals.
- Exploit their colleagues, prioritizing self-interest over teamwork.
- Maintain a charming yet deceptive persona to gain influence.
- Lack empathy, using intimidation and fear to control their environment.
Research has shown that high-Machiavellian individuals often negatively impact workplace culture, reducing trust and collaboration. Studies indicate that Machiavellian leadership is linked to unethical decision-making and increased workplace stress.
The Dark Triad of Personality Traits
The Dark Triad consists of:
- Machiavellianism — Focuses on manipulation, strategy, and deception for personal gain.
- Narcissism — Involves excessive self-importance, a need for admiration, and entitlement.
- Psychopathy — Characterized by impulsivity, lack of remorse, and antisocial behavior.
Individuals exhibiting these traits often have low empathy, exploit others, and disregard morality. Understanding these differences can help in identifying and managing toxic behaviors effectively.
Recognizing Machiavellian Personality
Common Traits of Machiavellians
People with Machiavellian traits:
- Use manipulation to control others.
- Exploit relationships for personal benefit.
- Lack emotional attachment or empathy.
- Prioritize power and prestige over ethical considerations.
- Engage in deceptive behaviors to maintain their advantage.
The Mach IV Test: Measuring Machiavellianism
In 1960, psychologists Richard Christie and Florence Geis developed the Mach IV Test, a 20-item assessment designed to measure Machiavellian tendencies. Scores range from 20 to 100, with:
- 60 and above indicating “High Machs” (strong Machiavellian tendencies).
- Below 60 identifying “Low Machs” (less manipulative individuals).
Those scoring higher are more likely to display manipulative behaviors, lack empathy, and exhibit self-serving tendencies.
Additional Ways to Identify Machiavellianism
Obsession with Power
Machiavellians will abandon allies, manipulate emotions, and deceive others to gain status and control.
Inconsistent Success with Manipulation
Not all Machiavellians are effective manipulators; some fail due to overconfidence or miscalculation.
Emotional Detachment
They often appear emotionally distant, lacking genuine empathy, and sometimes derive pleasure from others’ failures.
Competitive Behavior
Machiavellians thrive in high-stakes, competitive environments, using deception and power tactics to climb social and corporate ladders.
Strategic Behavior
They carefully withhold information, sabotage colleagues, and sometimes use romantic relationships as tools for personal advancement.
How to Deal with Machiavellian Individuals
1. Prioritize Self-Care
Dealing with a Machiavellian can be mentally exhausting. Set firm boundaries and seek professional support if necessary.
2. Accept Your Limitations
Machiavellians rarely change. Limiting interactions with them is often the best course of action.
3. Manage Your Vulnerabilities
If you’ve been manipulated, recognize that their lack of conscience makes them unlikely to care about your feelings. Surround yourself with supportive people.
4. Build Supportive Relationships
Form connections with individuals who genuinely care about your well-being. Having a strong support network can help buffer against manipulation.
5. Keep Conversations Work-Based
Avoid discussing personal matters with Machiavellians to prevent giving them leverage for future manipulation.
6. Avoid Trying to Outsmart Them
They excel at deception. Instead of engaging in their tactics, distance yourself when possible.
7. Develop a Mastery Mindset
Focus on your own goals and success rather than being drawn into their games. Stay strategic and pragmatic in your dealings with them.
Machiavellianism vs. Narcissism vs. Psychopathy
Key Differences
- Machiavellianism involves long-term strategic planning, deception, and power-seeking behavior.
- Narcissism centers on self-adoration, entitlement, and a need for admiration.
- Psychopathy is marked by impulsive, antisocial behavior and a lack of remorse.
Narcissists seek validation, whereas Machiavellians focus on power, often at the expense of ethical considerations.
Can People with Machiavellianism Change?
Psychologists suggest that individuals high in Machiavellian traits are unlikely to change. Their manipulative behaviors are deeply ingrained, making personality shifts difficult. The best approach is to avoid engaging with them and establish clear boundaries.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re struggling with a toxic relationship involving a Machiavellian, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional. Therapy can help you develop coping strategies and set boundaries for healthier interactions.
At Kentucky Counseling Center (KCC), our trained professionals specialize in navigating complex personality dynamics. You can schedule an appointment through KCC Direct Service for online mental health counseling.
