What your libido really reveals about your personality 👀

Canadian researchers have uncovered troubling links between certain personality traits and a high libido. Their findings raise new questions.

Traits from the "dark tetrad," including narcissism and sadism, may directly influence sexual behavior. These traits are often characterized by emotional coldness and aggressiveness.


The survey was conducted on more than 1,100 students. They completed questionnaires detailing their personality and sexual behavior, including pornography consumption. The results are striking.

People with an increased sexual desire often display narcissistic or sadistic characteristics. Among men, this trend is more pronounced. The narcissistic personality, assertive and sociable, seems to encourage sexual opportunities. This leads to reduced inhibitions and more frequent sexual behaviors.

Sadism, on the other hand, is associated with a constant search for intense stimulation. BDSM, for example, may be a response to this hypersexuality. Researchers believe testosterone could play a central role. This biological factor is more prevalent among men, which could explain the observed difference between the sexes.

Ultimately, this study highlights the complex interaction between personality, biology, and sexuality. An interaction that deserves further exploration.

What is the "dark tetrad"?

The dark tetrad refers to four negative personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism. These traits share common characteristics such as manipulation, lack of empathy, and a tendency toward aggressiveness.

Narcissism is characterized by an excessive need for admiration and an inflated sense of self-importance. Machiavellianism, on the other hand, involves manipulating and exploiting others to achieve one's goals, while psychopathy is marked by impulsivity and a lack of empathy. Sadism, lastly, is reflected in a pleasure derived from inflicting pain. These traits can influence various aspects of behavior, including sexuality.

How does testosterone influence libido?

Testosterone is a key hormone in regulating sexual desire, in both men and women. Primarily produced by the testes in men and the ovaries in women, it directly affects sexual appetite and the frequency of sexual impulses.

In men, high testosterone levels are associated with a stronger libido, an increased search for partners, and more daring sexual behavior. This hormone can also promote competitiveness and aggressiveness, traits often linked to certain aspects of personality like narcissism or sadism.

In extreme cases, high testosterone levels can sometimes heighten antisocial or dominant behaviors, thereby reinforcing the link between testosterone and dark tetrad traits, particularly in men.