Purpose - The objective of this systematic review is to summarize empirical research on the ways in which the Dark Triad—psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism—affect cooperation and conflict in work environments while taking into account the larger cultural context in which these dynamics take place. This study highlights neglected areas for further research by looking at important studies over the last 15 years, offering a comprehensive grasp of the relationship between personal traits and interpersonal relationships.

Method - Following PRISMA guidelines, database search was conducted across Scopus, Springer, and Google Scholar. Ten peer, reviewed quantitative articles met the inclusion criteria. A narrative synthesis was employed due to the heterogeneity of measures and outcomes to explore how Dark Triad traits manifest in workplace relationships, focusing on conflict, cooperation, and cultural nuances.

Findings- The results show that, although the strength of these effects varies based on more general environmental cues, Dark Triad traits frequently worsen interpersonal conflict and undercut cooperative behaviours. While psychopathy is significantly correlated with detrimental work behaviours, Machiavellianism is often the best predictor of manipulative methods and conflict escalation.

Originality- This review fills a significant vacuum in the research on organisational behaviour by looking at three different but connected personality qualities and evaluating how they affect cooperation and conflict when taken as a whole. It provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between personal dispositions and workplace dynamics by demonstrating how situational conditions can either exacerbate or lessen the appearance of Dark Triad features, drawing on Trait Activation Theory.

Research limitations/implications - While the limited sample of studies constrains generalizability, the review identifies pressing directions for future research, along with insights for organizations to improve workplace outcomes fostering ethical and transparent leadership....