ABSTRACT

Language is a powerful indicator of psychological processes. This study analysed the language features on online social networks to understand individuals’ Dark Triad personality and need for power. Results based on data from 130 individuals using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) dictionary showed that language features such as I-words, negative emotion, and clout were positively related to Machiavellianism, which was positively associated with the need for power. We also found indirect effects of Analytic, I-words, and Social words on the need for power through Narcissism and indirect effects of Analytic and Authenticity on the need for power through Psychopathy. In addition, gender moderated the relationship between I-words and Machiavellianism, in that the relationship was stronger for men than for women. Finally, we built a regression model using language features to predict individuals’ Dark Triad and the need for power. Based on the findings, we put forward some suggestions for managers to recruit and promote appropriate employees.

摘要

语言是心理过程的有力指标。本研究分析了在线社交网络上的语言特征，以了解个人的黑暗人格和对权力的需求。基于使用语言查询和字数统计 (LIWC) 词典的 130 名个人的数据的结果表明，诸如 I 字、负面情绪和影响力等语言特征与马基雅维利主义正相关，而马基雅维利主义与对权力的需求正相关。我们还发现了分析、I-words 和 Social 词通过自恋对权力需求的间接影响，以及分析和真实性对通过精神病态对权力需求的间接影响。此外，性别调节了 I-words 和马基雅维利主义之间的关系，因为男性的关系比女性强。最后，我们使用语言特征建立了一个回归模型来预测个人的黑暗三合会和对权力的需求。根据调查结果，我们提出了一些建议，供管理者招聘和提拔合适的员工。