The Short Dark Triad across 14 cultures: A novel network-based invariance approach

The aim of this study was to implement and extend exploratory graph analysis to examine the network-based invariance of the Short Dark Triad (SD3) across 14 nations/cultures worldwide. The sample included 15,690 (42.8% male) participants. First, the data were split into two halves: the first half was used for exploratory graph analysis to establish the three-dimensional configural measurement model, while the second half was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis to test this configuration. Second, metric invariance was assessed within each culture based on community memberships established during configural invariance testing. Finally, network loadings were compared across cultures. The results showed that the network structure achieved both approximate and partial metric invariance, with 13 out of 27 items consistently demonstrating this invariance. The central and invariant item for Machiavellianism involved strategic information tracking, for narcissism–external validation of specialness, and for psychopathy–lack of control, reflecting their unique characteristics. Items related to a revengeful mindset and the demand for deserved respect exhibited the largest absolute differences in network loadings across cultures. The findings support the cross-cultural metric invariance of the SD3, highlighting both culturally universal and culture-specific indicators for each dark trait.