Entitled and exploitative people are more likely to treat others as objects, study finds

March 3, 2026 - 16:28

A new psychological study has pinpointed the specific personality traits that drive individuals to objectify others, reducing them to mere tools for personal gain. The research identifies a strong link between entitled, exploitative behavior and the tendency to see fellow humans as interchangeable objects.

The findings reveal that individuals with high levels of "psychological entitlement" and exploitativeness are significantly more likely to view others instrumentally. This mindset is characterized by seeing people as useful only for fulfilling one's own needs, with little regard for their autonomy or feelings.

Crucially, the study goes beyond simple selfishness. While low agreeableness—a lack of compassion and cooperativeness—is a predictable component, researchers also found that a low openness to experience is a key factor. This suggests that individuals with rigid, closed-off worldviews are less able or willing to appreciate the complex inner lives of others, making objectification easier.

This combination of entitlement, willingness to exploit, and intellectual inflexibility creates a potent mix for dehumanizing behavior. The research provides a clearer framework for understanding the psychological underpinnings of objectification, which can manifest in contexts ranging from personal relationships to workplace dynamics and broader social prejudice. By identifying these traits, the study opens avenues for further research into mitigating such harmful interpersonal patterns.