Personality
Machiavellianism Test (FFMI-SSF)
15 statements measuring a strategic, calculating interpersonal style.
About this test
This test uses the Five-Factor Machiavellianism Inventory – Super Short Form (FFMI-SSF), a research measure of Machiavellianism as a personality trait. Machiavellianism describes a strategic, calculating way of dealing with people: a willingness to manipulate, a focus on self-interest and status, and a cynical, guarded view of others. It is a normal trait that everyone has to some degree, not a disorder. A higher total means you described more of this style in yourself. This is a self-reflection tool, not a diagnosis.
What your score means
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 13–30 | Lower Machiavellian traits |
| 31–47 | Moderate Machiavellian traits |
| 48–65 | Higher Machiavellian traits |
About this questionnaire
The FFMI-SSF is a freely available screening questionnaire. We present it exactly as published and add a plain-language explanation of your result.
It is for education and self-reflection, not a diagnosis — a score is a snapshot, not a label. If your result worries you, talk to a qualified professional. See how we choose and check our tests and our editorial standards.
Further independent, authoritative sources on this topic:
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
Machiavellianism as a personality trait, using the FFMI Super Short Form. It reflects a strategic and manipulative approach to people, a focus on self-interest, and a cynical view of others. A higher total means you endorsed more of this style.
Is a high score a bad thing or a diagnosis?
No. Machiavellianism is a normal personality trait on a continuum, not a disorder or a diagnosis. A higher score just means you described more of this strategic, guarded style in yourself; it is not a judgment of your worth.
Is this test free?
Yes. It uses the Five-Factor Machiavellianism Inventory Super Short Form, which the authors make freely available, and we credit them on this page.
Related screenings
Source: Five-Factor Machiavellianism Inventory – Super Short Form (FFMI-SSF), based on Collison, Vize, Miller & Lynam (2018). Made freely available for use by the authors (D. R. Lynam & J. D. Miller).