Explorations of the Shadow Realm

Abstract

Abstract Organizational scholars are increasingly recognizing the importance of subclinical or “dark” personality traits for understanding behavior at work. The present review considers the nature of dark personality traits, the major frameworks for understanding dark personality in both academic and workplace settings, and briefly summarizes research documenting the relationship between dark personality traits and workplace outcomes. We then review potential triggers for dark personality traits as well as contextual and normative circumstances where individuals may feel that their display of behaviors associated with dark traits is more likely to be tolerated. Finally, we outline an agenda for future research on dark personality in the workplace in terms of needed improvements on measures and methods and also how a better understanding of the interpersonal contexts surrounding individuals with dark personality that can shape how and when these traits impact critical organizational outcomes.