Research shows one in five CEOs exhibits clinically significant psychopathic traits.
It’s a rate nearly identical to that found in prison populations.
Recent findings presented at the Australian Psychological Society’s annual congress indicate a startling trend in the corporate world: approximately 21% of senior professionals possess clinically significant psychopathic traits. This figure mirrors the prevalence of psychopathy within prison populations and stands in stark contrast to the estimated 1% to 4% found in the general public. These individuals, often dubbed “successful psychopaths,” navigate their way into high-ranking positions by leveraging superficial charm and flamboyant personalities. However, these same traits—including a profound lack of empathy and a penchant for insincerity—can predispose leaders to unethical behaviors and long-term organizational failure.
Forensic psychologist Nathan Brooks, who led the study alongside researchers from Bond University and the University of San Diego, suggests that current recruitment strategies are partially to blame. Many firms focus exclusively on technical skills and professional history, inadvertently ignoring toxic personality features that can damage corporate culture. To combat the rise of psychopathy in the C-suite, the study advocates for more rigorous personality screening during the hiring process. By shifting the focus from mere competence to character, businesses can better protect themselves from the “short-term success” that psychopathic leaders often buy at the cost of the company’s future integrity.
source: Brooks, N., Fritzon, K., & Croom, S. Corporate Psychopathy: Highlighting the Importance of Personality Screening in the Recruitment Process. Australian Psychological Society Annual Congress.
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