Unmasking the Dark Triad: A Data Fusion Machine Learning Approach to Characterize the Neural Bases of Narcissistic, Machiavellian and Psychopathic Traits.

ABSTRACT: The Dark Triad (DT), encompassing narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy traits, poses significant societal challenges. Understanding the neural underpinnings of these traits is crucial for developing effective interventions and preventive strategies. Our study aimed to unveil the neural substrates of the DT by examining brain scans from 201 individuals (mean age: 32.43, 105 females) using the unsupervised learning algorithm transposed independent vector analysis (tIVA). tIVA, known for identifying complex patterns in neuroimaging data, detected 15 joint grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) networks. Of these networks, four were associated with the DT. The first component comprises areas within the reward network, including the thalamus, caudate, anterior cingulate and prefrontal r

SUBMITTER: Bakiaj R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11754945 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature