Menschen mit Merkmalen der „dunklen Triade“ – Narzissmus, Psychopathie und Machiavellismus – nutzen oft körperliche Berührung, um romantische Partner zu kontrollieren oder zu manipulieren. Frauen mit diesen Merkmalen neigten eher dazu, Berührungen manipulativ einzusetzen, obwohl sie es selbst ablehnten, berührt zu werden. Ängstliche Männer nutzten Berührungen zur Beruhigung.

I’ve linked to the news release in the post above. In this comment, for those interested, here’s the link to the peer reviewed journal article:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-025-08282-0

From the linked article:

Summary: Touch can strengthen bonds and calm stress, but not all affection is sincere. A new study reveals that **people with “dark triad” traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—often use physical touch to control or manipulate their romantic partners**.

**Women with these traits were more likely to use touch manipulatively while disliking being touched themselves, whereas anxious men used touch for reassurance**. The findings reveal that even gestures that seem loving can mask control and self-serving intent.

Key Facts:

Manipulative Touch: People high in narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism often use touch to control partners.

Gender Differences: Women with dark triad traits resisted being touched but used touch manipulatively; men used touch for reassurance.

Therapeutic Potential: Understanding the misuse of touch may guide interventions that promote healthy, reciprocal affection.