This study investigated interpersonal relationships with individuals that have Dark Triad traits-narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy-specifically, if individuals with a low socioeconomic status seek help from Dark Triad individuals due to low trait self-control which leads to less deliberate decision-making and negative behavior choices. To examine this possibility, we conducted an online survey (N = 1334) using a hypothetical scenario. In the scenario, participants were offered help from a Dark Triad individual when faced with the most critical situation in his/her life or a non-crisis situation. Results indicated that individuals with low socioeconomic status had low levels of self-control that contributed to accepting help from Dark Triad individuals regardless of the situation. Moreover, additional examinations of the three Dark Triad traits revealed similar patterns regardless of the three-subcomponents. The importance of self-control training and intervention are discussed as future research possibilities.
