Somebody that I (used to) know: Gender and dimensions of dark personality traits as predictors of intimate partner cyberstalking

Abstract

Intimate partner cyberstalking, a form of intimate partner stalking, is stalking behaviour perpetrated via technology. Experiencing intimate partner cyberstalking is associated with significant negative outcomes including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and social isolation. In the current study, we aimed to (1) establish intimate partner cyberstalking as a controlling relationship behaviour and (2) explore the utility of gender and dimensions of the Dark Tetrad traits (i.e., narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism) to predict intimate partner cyberstalking. Participants (N = 405; 69.6% women) completed an online questionnaire measuring personality, online behaviour, a..