Exploring the Dark side of conscientiousness. The relationship between conscientiousness and its potential derailers: perfectionism and narcissism

Abstract

The current study aimed to identify what individual differences and situational variables cause derailment in highly conscientious people. Data were from a representative working sample of 716 participants across 27 industries, spanning both management and non-management roles. We tested four hypotheses with regard to bright- and dark-side personality traits and the relationship between boss/manager and staff member. Hierarchical linear regressions revealed mixed findings for Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) as a stressor. For maladaptive perfectionism it was confirmed, but not for adaptive perfectionism or narcissism. Results suggest introverts may be more prone to maladaptive perfectionism, even with higher levels of conscientiousness if there are lower LMX levels. Overall, the findings suggest selecting for conscientiousness alone and discounting other personality traits and situational variables may be detrimental in practice. Further implications are discussed alongside the study limitations.