My primary research interests are in three interrelated areas: (1) personality structures and processes (e.g., narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism, spitefulness), (2) self-esteem, and (3) interpersonal relationships. Though divergent at times, these substantive areas often overlap in my research so that much of my work reflects an integration of these topics. My research concerning personality structures and processes is focused on identifying potentially aversive aspects of personality and examining their connections with aspects of motivation (e.g., the desire for status) and important life outcomes (e.g., psychological adjustment). In my research concerning self-esteem, I have focused primarily on the causes and consequences of fragile high self-esteem as well as the development of the status-signaling model of self-esteem. Finally, in the area of interpersonal relationships, I examine how personality features as well as beliefs about the self and one’s romantic partner influence intimacy, relationship satisfaction, jealousy, infidelity, and longevity in close relationships.