Psychologists determined a while back that the combination of personality traits found in people who use others to their own advantage is called the Dark Triad.

Sounds badass. Or like an assassin crime ring.

The Dark Triad traits include narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism. Or, self-admiration, insensitivity, and manipulation. A winning combo. These traits make you a bit of a nightmare to date. According to new data, they also make a bit of a nightmare to stop dating.

Researchers at Oakland University studied the post-relationship friendships of 861 people and found that those with darker personality traits were more likely to keep exes around as friends. What's more, they purposefully kept them around to exchange "desirable resources" like hookups and other sexual relationships. They also thought staying friends was more practical (for them) than cutting ties.

So, if the person you are dating is still weirdly close with their ex—"he's just a friend!"—run away. If it's you, well, get that checked out.

[h/t: Daily Mail]

From Esquire.

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Sarah Rense

Sarah Rense is the Lifestyle Editor at Esquire, where she covers tech, food, drinks, home, and more.