Arménio Rego, researcher at the Research Centre in Management and Economics (CEGE) and Professor at Católica Porto Business School (CPBS), is one of the authors of the article "Drawing on the Dark Triad to Teach Effective Leadership is Dangerous, Irresponsible, and Bad Theory", published in the scientific journal Academy of Management Learning & Education. In addition to Arménio Rego, the study was co-authored by Miguel Pina e Cunha (Universidade Nova de Lisboa), Stewart Clegg (University of Sydney and University of Stavanger) and Ace V. Simpson (Centre for Compassion Studies).
The research assumes that the dark triad (a combination of three personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy) have been gaining traction and that, contrary to what some authors suggest, it is a mistake to assume these characteristics as being functional. These personalities lack empathy and morality, and work for their own selfish interests. Narcissists need to be constantly admired and believe themselves to be better than others. Machiavellians are skilled at deception and naturally distrustful, manipulating people in their favour. Psychopaths take pleasure in causing suffering and intimidating others.
The conduct of leaders characterised by the dark triad is not only perverse for the social capital of the organisation and the employees’ health, but it can also result in the decline and destruction of organisations, and even be detrimental to society. With this in mind, the article examines the consequences of the dark triad in leaders and proposes a teaching-learning agenda aimed at preparing “students' minds” and emphasizing three lines of defence.
The first defence consists in making students/trainees aware of the dangers associated with the dark triad, equipping them with the necessary tools to identify and prevent these behaviours. The second line of defence is to promote the implementation of governance mechanisms and organisational cultures that reject and prevent leaders with dark triad traits from acting. The third and final defence teaches how to deal effectively with leaders characterised by these tendencies when the previous defences fail and such leaders are already operating within the organisation.
The study also highlights the importance of combating toxic management behaviours, just as good educators seek to eliminate practices that undermine sustainability in organisations. The Academy of Management Insights has published a summary of this work, highlighting ways in which "Blocking Psychopaths, Narcissists, and Machiavellians from Leadership" reinforces the need for an educational approach that prepares future leaders for an ethical and responsible organisational environment. You can find it here.
