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Machiavellianism and Aggression as Predictors of Emotional Manipulation

Author

Listed:
  • Khawaja Sarwar

    (SK Research-Oxford Business College, UK)

  • Sokić Katarina

    (SK Research-Oxford Business College, UK Algebra University, Croatia)

  • Qureshi Fayyaz Hussain

    (SK Research-Oxford Business College, UK)

  • Nikolić Helena

    (Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Croatia)

Abstract

Background Emotional manipulation, Machiavellianism, and aggression represent individual characteristics that can substantially shape behaviour and interactions in organisational settings. These traits are linked to counterproductive work behaviours, weakened team functioning, and diminished leadership effectiveness. Objectives This study examines how Machiavellianism, proactive aggression, and reactive aggression predict emotional manipulation, poor emotional skills, and the concealment of emotions, with a specific focus on their relevance for organisational dynamics and workplace relationships. Methods/Approach The Emotional Manipulation Scale, the Short Dark Triad, and the Reactive-Proactive Aggression Questionnaire were applied to a sample of 332 individuals. Data was collected online from a convenience sample of the general population. Results Machiavellianism positively predicted emotional manipulation, poor emotional skills, and emotional concealment. Proactive aggression predicted emotional manipulation and emotional concealment, while reactive aggression predicted emotional manipulation. Machiavellianism added incremental value beyond reactive and proactive aggression in explaining all three emotional outcomes. Conclusions The findings highlight Machiavellianism as a key behavioural risk factor in organisational contexts, shaping manipulative tendencies that can undermine cooperation, leadership quality, and organisational performance. The results provide valuable implications for management, HR practices, and organisational diagnostics.

Suggested Citation

  • Khawaja Sarwar & Sokić Katarina & Qureshi Fayyaz Hussain & Nikolić Helena, 2025. "Machiavellianism and Aggression as Predictors of Emotional Manipulation," Business Systems Research, Sciendo, vol. 16(2), pages 168-182.
    • Handle: RePEc:bit:bsrysr:v:16:y:2025:i:2:p:168-182:n:1008
    DOI: 10.2478/bsrj-2025-0023
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yves Thépaut & Maria Sakalaki & Clive Richardson, 2007. "Machiavellianism and Economic Opportunism," Université Paris1 Panthéon-Sorbonne (Post-Print and Working Papers) halshs-00442018, HAL.
    2. Yves Thépaut & Maria Sakalaki & Clive Richardson, 2007. "Machiavellianism and Economic Opportunism," Post-Print halshs-00442018, HAL.
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    JEL classification:

    • I10 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - General
    • J20 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - General
    • J80 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - General

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