Effects of Dark Triad on Transformational, Transactional and Laissez-Faire Leadership Styles

Abstract

Aim of this research is to examine effects of dark triad personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism,and psychopathy) on Transformational, Transactional and Laissez Faire leadership styles. Data for theresearch are collected through questionnaire surveys using convenience sampling method. To measureDark Triad traits Dirty Dozen scale developed by Jonason and Webster (2010), to measure leadershipstyles Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ 5x) developed by Bass and Avolio (1995) are used.Exploratory Factor Analyses are conducted to dirty dozen and MLQ 5x scales. Dark triad traits areextracted into three, transformational leadership is extracted into two, transactional leadership is extracted into three and laissez faire leadership is extracted into a single factor. Correlation, General LinearModel and multiple regression analyses are conducted using all factors obtained. Results showed significant effect of Dark Triad traits on leadership styles. Also, regression analyses indicated positive effectof dark triad constructs on laissez faire, negative effect of Machiavellianism and psychopathy on transformational and contingency reward, positive effect of narcissism and psychopathy on management byexception passive, positive effect of Narcissism on management by exception active leadership styles.The implications of the results are discussed and future research areas are suggested.