Authoritarian people are individuals who tend to seek control and domination in their relationships and environments. This type of personality can manifest itself in various ways in everyday life, from the home to the workplace. Throughout history, this psychological trait has been studied in depth and certain common characteristics that are usually present in authoritarian people have been identified.
1 . Need for control
One of the most prominent characteristics in authoritarian people is their strong need to exert control over the situations and people around them. They tend to be individuals who prefer to have power and authority in their hands, and find it uncomfortable or threatening when they lose control of a situation. This need for control can manifest itself in dominant and dictatorial behaviors, seeking to impose their ideas and decisions on others.
Manifestations of the need for control:
- Interfering in decision-making of others' decisions.
- Imposing your point of view without considering other opinions.
- Showing resistance to delegating responsibilities.
2. Rigidity and low tolerance for ambiguity
Authoritarian people tend to be very rigid in their beliefs and values, showing little flexibility in the face of ambiguous or changing situations. They prefer clarity and certainty, and tend to distrust uncertainty. This rigidity can lead to conflicts in situations where adaptation and openness to new ideas are required.
Signs of rigidity and low tolerance for ambiguity:
- Rejection to consider different points of view.
- Difficulty accepting changes in routine or established plans.
- Seek constant confirmation of their beliefs and values.
3. Low empathy and lack of compassion
Lack of empathy is another common characteristic in authoritarian people. They tend to focus on their own interests and needs, showing little interest or concern for the feelings and experiences of others. This lack of compassion can manifest itself in insensitive or indifferent attitudes towards the suffering or difficulties of others.
Indications of low empathy and lack of compassion:
- Disqualifying feelings of others.
- Minimize the suffering of others.
- Show lack of interest in the emotional needs of others.
4. Authoritarianism and hierarchy
Authoritarianism is an ideology that places a very high value on authority, obedience and hierarchy. People with authoritarian tendencies tend to adhere to values based on hierarchical rigidity and respect for authority, showing submission to those they consider superior and contempt for those they consider inferior.
Characteristics of authoritarianism and hierarchy:
- Constantly look for leaders or authority figures.
- Adhere to strict standards of behavior and conduct.
- Distrust those who challenge established authority.
5. Tendency toward prejudice and discrimination
Authoritarian people tend to categorize others into groups and apply stereotypes and prejudices based on those categories. This tendency to prejudice and discrimination can manifest itself in racist, sexist, homophobic attitudes or other forms of discrimination based on intolerance and mental rigidity.
Manifestations of the tendency to prejudice and discrimination:
- Expressing negative judgments towards individuals of certain races, genders or sexual orientations.
- Supporting discriminatory policies or actions towards minority groups.
- Rejecting diversity and inclusion in society.
6. Propensity toward political authoritarianism
Authoritarian people tend to show a greater predisposition to support authoritarian political regimes or dictatorships. This is due to its affinity with the control, hierarchy and ideological rigidity that characterize these political systems. Furthermore, their tendency to follow strong and charismatic leaders makes them more susceptible to being manipulated by authoritarian and populist discourses.
Characteristics of the propensity for political authoritarianism:
- Support authoritarian political leaders and dictators.
- Defense of repressive and undemocratic policies.
- Rejection of divergence of opinions and political criticism.
7. Vulnerability to manipulation and brainwashing
Authoritarian people, due to their tendency to follow charismatic leaders and believe firmly in authority, are more vulnerable to being manipulated and subjected to brainwashing techniques. . These techniques may include the use of propaganda, misinformation, and fear induction to influence the beliefs and decisions of authoritarian people.
Indications of vulnerability to manipulation and brainwashing:
- Accept without questioning information provided by authority figures.
- Adopt extreme or irrational beliefs under the influence of charismatic leaders.
- Participate in violent or undemocratic actions justified by authoritarian ideology.
In summary, authoritarian people share a series of characteristics that reflect their need for control, mental rigidity, lack of empathy, adherence to hierarchy, tendency to prejudice and discrimination, propensity for political authoritarianism and vulnerability to manipulation. Understanding these characteristics is essential to identify and address this type of behavior in society and promote values such as freedom, equality and mutual respect.