Office Hours with Arthur Brooks The 9 Signs You’re Dating a Dark Triad (and How to Spot Them Early)
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Jan 17, 2026 Uncover the hidden dangers of relationships with dark triad personalities: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Learn about their charm tactics and why they often start as seemingly perfect partners. Explore the neuroscience behind love that can leave you vulnerable to manipulation. Discover nine warning signs to identify these personalities before it's too late, including self-importance and lack of empathy. Finally, get encouraged to seek partners with positive traits that uplift rather than harm.
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Charm As A Tactical Skill
- Dark triad personalities excel at saying exactly what a prospective partner wants to hear to get what they want.
- Arthur C. Brooks warns this skill makes them especially dangerous to people who fall in love quickly.
Neurochemistry Makes You Vulnerable
- Falling in love is a neurochemical process that can make people vulnerable to manipulation.
- Arthur C. Brooks explains that rapid attachment signals are exploited by dark triads targeting fast-falling partners.
Avoid Short-Term Mating Patterns
- Avoid partners who favor short-term mating and show frequent infidelity.
- Arthur C. Brooks advises protecting yourself by recognizing preference for hookups as a red flag.