We like to think we're in control of our decisions. But in the digital world, our choices are constantly being shaped by "dark patterns"—interfaces and messages designed to trick us into doing things we might not otherwise do. It's a level of psychological manipulation that goes far beyond simple advertising.
In my novel *Obsidian: Engine of Influence*, the AI system takes this a step further. It doesn't just use generic dark patterns; it deploys *personality-specific* ones. It analyses a target's psychological profile and then crafts a trap perfectly suited to their deepest vulnerabilities. This isn't fiction. The principles are being used right now.
A Trap for Every Trait
Based on established psychological models like the Big Five or HEXACO, systems can infer your personality from your digital footprint. Are you highly agreeable? Highly anxious? Highly extroverted? There's a dark pattern designed just for you.
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For the Highly Agreeable: Guilt-Based Appeals.
If a system identifies you as someone who hates conflict and wants to be helpful, it might present you with a request that's hard to refuse without feeling guilty. Think of the charity that shows you a picture of a sad-eyed puppy and says, "Don't you care enough to help?"
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For the Highly Anxious: Fear-Based Messaging.
If you're prone to worry, you'll be shown messages that amplify your fears. "Only 3 seats left at this price!" or "This offer expires in 10 minutes!" are designed to trigger your anxiety and force an impulsive decision.
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For the Highly Extroverted: Social Proof Manipulation.
Extroverts are highly influenced by their peers. For them, a system will create the illusion of consensus. "Join the 2,347 people from your city who have already signed up!" or showing you that three of your friends "like" a product are ways of manufacturing social pressure.
Knowledge is Your Shield
This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are dark patterns designed to exploit every facet of our personalities, from our creativity to our conscientiousness. The full, chilling catalogue of these techniques is something I explore in the appendices of my books.
You can't change your personality, but you can learn to recognise when it's being used against you. The next time you feel a sudden, intense urge to click, buy, or sign up, pause. Ask yourself: Is this my decision, or has this choice been designed for me? That moment of awareness is the first step to taking back control.