Scary Study Says Psychopaths Are Likely To Live In South Dakota

A chilling new study has revealed that certain American states harbor significantly higher concentrations of individuals with dark personality traits.

South Dakota ranks among the top four most concerning locations.

The New York Post stated the research, conducted by University of Copenhagen scientists, challenges our understanding of how the environment shapes personality.

The 20-year study examined global correlations between living conditions and the prevalence of what psychologists call the "dark triad"...psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism.

I had to look that last one up.

"Machiavellianism" is a personality trait that “denotes cunningness, the ability to be manipulative, and a drive to use whatever means necessary to gain power.”

These traits represent the human capacity for manipulation, lack of empathy, and exploitative behavior toward others.

The Top 4 States Psychopaths Are Most Likely To Live are...

• Nevada topped the rankings with the highest average "D" score of 2.26 out of 5.
• New York at 2.24
• South Dakota and Texas tied at 2.22.

The study suggests that contributing societal conditions help to create environments where dark personality traits are more likely to flourish...including:

• corruption
• inequality
• poverty
• violence

The implication is that our personalities aren't just innate characteristics but are actively molded by our surroundings.

While the study doesn't suggest that everyone in these states possesses dark traits, it does indicate that certain environmental conditions create fertile ground for their development.