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Do you have criminal tendencies? The two-minute test reveals those most likely to commit crimes
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Do you have criminal tendencies? The two-minute test reveals those most likely to commit crimes

Have you ever wondered if you have the ability to commit a murder? Well, now you can find out, with a new science-backed test that only takes a few minutes.

The online tool, created by experts at health website PsychCentral, reveals whether you have the so-called “dark triad” personality traits that have been linked to criminal behaviour.

Psychologists use the term “dark triad” to identify someone with three types of personality; psychopathy, narcissism and Machiavellianism – which are closely related to malicious and antisocial behaviour.

People with these traits are thought to be more likely to be manipulative and exhibit emotional coldness.

Research suggests that personality types in this category may influence crime and may help explain why some individuals are more likely to reoffend.

One 2024, study published in Current Psychology asked 471 Serbian prisoners over the age of 40 to complete a psychology questionnaire. Details of each inmate’s criminal history and whether they had repeat offenses were recorded.

The results showed that Machiavellianism was the most significant predictor of criminal behavior among dark traits. Those with the personality trait were more likely to engage in repeat offending.

Do you have criminal tendencies? The two-minute test reveals those most likely to commit crimes

An online tool, created by health website PsychCentral, reveals whether you have “dark triad” personality traits that have been linked to criminal behavior.

Survey takers are asked 15 questions and given the option to answer never, sometimes or often before awarding a score

Survey takers are asked 15 questions and given the option to answer never, sometimes or often before awarding a score

It asks if you tend to manipulate others to get your way, if you're cynical, need to be the center of attention, and if you've been called a

It asks if you tend to manipulate others to get your way, if you’re cynical, need to be the center of attention, and if you’ve been called a “computer”

PsychCentral Test, which can be accessed Hereand only takes a few minutes to complete, tests for dark triad personality type traits.

The test was adapted from 2010 research by psychologists Webster and Jonason, who created “dirty dozentest to identify whether the “dark triad” was present in their patients.

Survey takers are asked 15 questions and given the option to answer never, sometimes, or often before awarding a score.

A score of zero to seven means you display mild and rare traits, eight to 14 means you have some traits, while those who score 15 can live with traits consistent with the dark triad personality.

They ask if you tend to manipulate others to get your way, if you’re cynical, need to be the center of attention, and if you’ve been called a “calculator.”

The health website warns that “those who display some of these traits, such as narcissism, may initially be seen as charming and highly accomplished.”

It adds that if you notice these traits in yourself, you should consider seeking an evaluation with a qualified health or mental health professional.

Although the information in this test can help people figure out if you could benefit from the support of a mental health professional, this online screening is not intended to be a diagnostic tool. Only an authorized medical professional can give the diagnosis.

A therapist can also help you determine if your problems are a symptom of another mental health condition and recommend a treatment plan.

Do you think you have dark triad personality traits?

The test, which can be found Heretests for traits of the dark triad personality type.

Participants are asked 15 questions and given the option to answer never, sometimes, or often before awarding a score.

A score of zero to seven means you display mild and rare traits, eight to 14 means you have some traits, while those who score 15 can live with traits consistent with the dark triad personality.

The questions:

  1. I tend to manipulate others to get my way.
  2. I lied to get my way.
  3. I used flattery to get my way.
  4. I tend to exploit others for my own gain.
  5. I have been told that I lack empathy or remorse.
  6. I tend not to be too concerned with morality.
  7. I was told I was insensitive.
  8. I tend to be cynical.
  9. I need a lot of praise or admiration from others.
  10. I need to be the center of attention.
  11. I prefer to make friends only with important people.
  12. I was called a “computer”.
  13. Most people don’t immediately deserve basic respect.
  14. I keep track of other people’s secrets in case I need to use them against the person in the future.
  15. Only people who can help me in some way deserve to be known.