Does Everyone Have a Sadistic Side?

Sadistic personality traits are more common than you'd think — more than half of people show these both in personality questionnaires and in their actions in the lab, according to a new study published in the journal Psychological Science.

How do I know if I am sadistic?

Some of the typical characteristics that a person with a sadistic personality has are: They enjoy seeing people hurt. They enjoy inflicting pain on others. They cherish the idea of others being in pain.

What causes a person to be sadistic?

For instance, continually being exposed to situations in which sexual enjoyment or of excitement with the anguish of others can cause sadism or sadomasochism. In other words, the suffering of others gives pleasure and observing that suffering feels good.