Sex Differences in the Relationship between Machiavellianism and Self-Disclosure

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Abstract
Previous research suggests that there should be a negative correlation between Machiavellianism (Mach) and willingness to reveal things about oneself. However, existing data are unclear and contradictory, especially regarding differences between males and females. College students (48 male, 77 female) completed measures of both Machiavellianism and self-disclosure, and the two sets of scores were correlated. As expected, Mach was significantly correlated with unwillingness to self-disclose among males. For the females, however, Mach was significantly correlated with willingness to disclose. The two correlations are significantly different. Culturally defined differences in the goals of men and women may account for the results. According to current stereotypes, men are oriented toward individual achievement, while die goals of women are more “social,” being popular, nurturant, skilled at getting along with others, etc. Women who accept these goals and who are willing to employ manipulative (Machiavellian) tactics to achieve them could use self-disclosure effectively, while it would be an ineffective strategy for men.

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