# Psychological Adjustment and Dark Triad Traits in Adolescents Living in Residential Care: A Comparative Study Between Boys and Girls

## TL;DR

This study examines how personality traits and psychological adjustment differ among boys and girls in residential care, finding that boys and younger individuals show higher levels of problematic traits.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into sex and age differences in Dark Triad traits and psychological adjustment among adolescents in residential care.

## Key findings

- Boys scored higher in all Dark Triad traits and behavioral problems compared to girls.
- Younger participants showed higher levels of Machiavellianism, Psychopathy, and emotional/behavioral issues.
- Findings suggest the need for tailored programs based on sex and age differences in residential care settings.

## Abstract

Young people in residential care settings tend to present a heightened risk of emotional and behavioral problems. This study intended to explore connections between Dark Triad personality traits and psychological adjustment and to investigate potential sex and age differences in psychological adjustment and the expression of Dark Triad traits. Primary data were collected from a sample of 511 youth (279 girls and 232 boys) aged between 12 and 24 years, living in 46 Portuguese residential care institutions. Self-report questionnaires (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Short Dark Triad) were used to collect the primary data. Statistical methods were used such as analysis of variance, multivariate analysis of variance, and hierarchical regression analysis. Results showed that boys scored higher in all Dark Triad traits and in behavioral problems. Younger participants scored higher in Machiavellianism and Psychopathy, in emotional and behavioral problems, and in hyperactivity/inattention difficulties. These results could help institutional professionals and social policies assess and delineate individual programs.