A new study conducted by scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus shows that a person's character traits directly affect their future career choice. According to the research, individuals with psychopathic tendencies prefer fields involving more physical labor and technical work.
Medianews.az, citing Lent.az, reports that the study surveyed over 600 students aged between 17 and 32.
The results revealed a correlation between participants' career interests and a psychological traits complex called the "dark triad." This complex includes psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism.
It was found that people with stronger psychopathic traits tend to gravitate toward fields requiring less interaction with others and more work with tools. The most popular profession in this category is mechanic. Additionally, there is high interest in engineering and other technical specialties.
According to the research, individuals with Machiavellian traits try to avoid social fields. They shy away from professions that require helping others, empathy, and frequent communication.
Those prone to narcissism, on the other hand, prefer fields where they can gain attention and recognition. These include creativity, business, law, and politics. Such professions enable them both to showcase themselves and to hold a dominant position.
An interesting point in the study concerned the healthcare sector. It was found that while individuals working in this field exhibit a high level of "courage," characteristic of psychopathy, they do not display cruelty or lack of control. This is explained by calm decision-making in critical situations.
The scientists also draw attention to the phenomena of "successful psychopaths" and "successful narcissists." Such individuals can swiftly rise in the workplace by appearing charming and sociable. However, once they attain high positions, their management styles may be harmful and toxic to the team.
The authors of the study recommend company leaders to be more cautious when appointing such individuals to high positions. It is noted that these employees can turn into difficult-to-manage and risky leaders once they acquire power.
Experts emphasize that these findings can help better understand people’s behaviors both in the work environment and in personal relationships.