A psychologist from the University of Liverpool has identified common texting habits that could indicate dark personality traits, including psychopathy. Charlotte Entwistle, writing for The Conversation, noted that the words people choose in texts, emails, or online comments can reveal deeper patterns in thinking and relating to others.
Entwistle explained that individuals with darker traits often use more hostile, negative, and disconnected language, including swear words and anger words like 'hate' or 'mad'. They also tend to use self-focused terms such as 'me', 'my', and 'I' rather than inclusive words like 'we'.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, psychopathy is a severe form of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) with an increased risk of violence. However, Entwistle emphasised that milder difficulties, such as mood fluctuations, negativity, or manipulative traits, can appear in everyday interactions.
She stressed the importance of noticing these patterns to understand others better and navigate social situations safely. However, she cautioned that using swear words alone does not indicate psychopathy; a combination of traits may warrant attention.
