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Dark Curiosity Test

Researchers have identified that curiosity, typically a driver of learning and growth, can take on darker forms when pursued for selfish, invasive, or destructive ends. This disposition, termed Dark Curiosity, reflects a general tendency where the desire to know manifests in socially maladaptive ways. All commonalities between these dark curious traits trace back to this core.

Do you have a dark curiosity streak? For each of the following items, indicate your level of agreement below.

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The IDRlabs Dark Curiosity Test (IDR-DCT©) is the property of IDRlabs International. It draws on research into curiosity’s darker dimensions but is not associated with specific researchers or their instruments.

This test was developed with input from professional analysts experienced in personality testing, organizational psychology, and psychopathology. However, tests like these are merely indicators—a first look to get you started.

Dark Curiosity Tests, whether professional, academic, or free online like this one, are tools to hint at your dark curious traits. No test can fully capture your Dark Curiosity with complete accuracy, and none can replace a deep dive into the underlying theory.

The authors of this test are certified in personality and psychological assessment. Results are provided "as-is," for free, and should not be taken as professional or certified advice. For more, see our Terms of Service.

References

  • Decety, J., & Jackson, P. L. (2004). "The Functional Architecture of Human Empathy." Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Reviews, 3(2).
  • Heym, N., et al. (2021). "The Dark Empath: Characterizing Dark Traits in the Presence of Empathy." Personality and Individual Differences, 169.
  • Jonason, P. K., & Krause, L. (2013). "The Emotional Deficits Associated with the Dark Triad Traits." Personality and Individual Differences, 55(5).
  • Kashdan, T. B., et al. (2009). "Curiosity and Exploration: Facilitating Positive Subjective Experiences." Journal of Personality Assessment, 91(3).
  • Oakley, B., et al. (2012). Pathological Altruism. Oxford University Press.
  • Paulhus, D. L., & Williams, K. M. (2002). "The Dark Triad of Personality: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy." Journal of Research in Personality, 36(6).
  • Porter, S., & Woodworth, M. (2007). "Psychopathy and Deception: Crocodile Tears and Beyond." Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 25(4).
  • Smith, R. H., et al. (2009). "Schadenfreude: The Joy of Another’s Misfortune." Emotion Review, 1(3).
  • Zuckerman, M. (1994). Behavioral Expressions and Biosocial Bases of Sensation Seeking. Cambridge University Press.

Why Use This Test?

1. Free. This online Dark Curiosity Test is delivered to you free of charge and will allow you to obtain your scores on the Dark Curiosity construct.

2. Validity and reliability. Empirical testing has shown the validity of Dark Curiosity traits, with evidence published in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating good scientific grounding.

3. Statistical controls. Test scores are logged into an anonymized database. Statistical analysis ensures maximum accuracy and validity of the results.

4. Made by professionals. The authors of this free online test are certified in personality testing and have worked professionally with psychology and psychopathology.