Do the Dark Triad and Self-Perceived Mate Value Predict Intention to Mate Poach?

Abstract

Although much research has been conducted on the psychology of mate poaching, little research has been conducted on the factors that predict intention to mate poach, particularly from the perspective of the poacher. Although some research has paid attention to the role of the dark triad in mate poaching, no research, to our knowledge, has explored the relationship between self-perceived mate value and intention to mate poach. We explored the role of the dark triad (Machiavellianism, narcissism and psychopathy), self-perceived mate value, and sex on one’s intention to mate poach, in 82 participants from Coventry University. We find that psychopathy was the only trait to significantly predict intention to mate poach, suggesting those who scored higher on psychopathy were more likely to mate poach. Furthermore, we find that self-perceived mate value significantly predicted intention to mate poach, suggesting those who perceive themselves as having a high mate value are likely to engage in mate poaching, which is a novel finding.