Using Goldberg’s Bass-Ackwards approach in an online sample (N = 591), I examined the hierarchical structure of multiple Machiavellianism measures against normal and abnormal personality traits. Results indicate that measures of Machiavellianism predominantly reflect psychopathy and narcissism, raising questions about the construct’s distinctiveness.
We propose that successful psychopathy is best conceptualized by high social status and low antisocial behavior. In a sample of 591 participants, boldness (an adaptive psychopathy feature) was positively related to socioeconomic status and personality functioning, while disinhibition and meanness were negatively related to both, supporting a two-dimensional view of success.
This chapter reviews the conceptualization of personality disorders from DSM-III onwards, outlines key differences between the DSM-5 and RDoC perspectives, and describes challenges for the RDoC framework—including a discussion of the network approach to psychological disorders as a possible alternative.
