Study links Trump supporters to higher traits of narcissism, psychopathy and lower empathy

Study links Trump supporters to higher traits of narcissism, psychopathy and lower empathy

A recent psychological study published in the Journal of Research in Personality, suggests a deeper, more troubling connection between certain personality traits and political ideology, particularly among supporters of Donald Trump.

The study suggests that individuals who favour Trump tend to score significantly higher on traits such as narcissism, psychopathy, manipulativeness, and callousness. These traits, often associated with the “Dark Triad” of personality, were also accompanied by lower levels of empathy and, in some cases, a disturbing enjoyment of others’ suffering.

Participants who displayed these malevolent traits were more likely to hold conservative political views and a favourable opinion of Trump. Conversely, those identified as more benevolent, kind, compassionate, and empathetic, tended to align with liberal ideologies.

“Psychopathic traits and a malevolent disposition predicted increased conservative political ideology. Meanwhile, a benevolent disposition predicted decreased conservative ideology—that is, more liberal views," Researchers said.

While the study focused on the subset of conservatives who strongly support Trump, the researchers clarified that not all conservatives are authoritarian or malevolent.

“Traditional small-government conservatives, would naturally reject the kind of executive overreach favored by authoritarian leaders," the report stated. But the current conservative movement in the U.S., heavily influenced by Trump, has shifted toward more authoritarian tendencies.

The report highlighted how Trump’s rhetoric and behavior often encourage hostility. One such incident cited occurred during a 2018 rally in Duluth, Minnesota, when a protester held up a photo of Trump with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Trump mocked the protester by saying, “Go home to your mom, darling,” as the crowd booed.

According to the study’s authors, this kind of crowd behaviour is indicative of a growing tolerance, and even celebration, of cruelty.

“Watching conservatives explain that they voted for Trump because he promised to inflict pain on a group of people they dislike has been especially disturbing. It’s a manifestation of malevolent traits expressed on a large scale," the report mentioned.

This research builds on existing studies that have long associated right-wing authoritarianism with traits like social dominance orientation and low empathy. Under Trump, however, these tendencies appear to have become more pronounced and normalized.

While the study does not claim all Trump supporters exhibit these traits, it offers a psychological lens to understand the motivations behind a certain segment of political allegiance in contemporary America.