How long does this quiz take?

It takes about 2-3 minutes to complete.

Are my responses private?

Yes, we don't store any identifying data when you take this quiz.

Can I take this test more than once?

Yes, you can retake the test any time to see how your results may have changed.

Will this quiz tell me if I am a narcissist?

While this profile explores dark traits like ego-validation and dominance, it is an achievement-mapping tool, not a clinical diagnostic for Narcissistic Personality Disorder.

Can my results help me build better work relationships?

Absolutely. By identifying if you are an individualist or a status-seeker, you can adjust your communication style to reduce friction and build more authentic trust.

Understand the primal forces that propel you toward victory or sabotage your peace.

The Competitive Instinct Profile

Decoding the shadow side of ambition and the hidden mechanics of your drive.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | Last Updated: February 18, 2026

The Competitive Instinct Profile (CIP) is a sophisticated psychological tool designed to map the intersection of social dominance, instrumentalism, and internal benchmarking. By examining the "darker" motivations behind high performance—such as the need for public status or the use of social circles as strategic assets—this profile reveals the specific archetype guiding your professional and personal ascent. Recognizing these patterns allows you to harness your competitive shadow responsibly, ensuring your ambition serves your long-term well-being rather than leading to isolation. To further explore the interpersonal consequences of your personality style, consider taking our Boundary Setting Style Quiz or the Machiavellianism Scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this quiz take?: It takes about 2-3 minutes to complete.
Are my responses private?: Yes, we don't store any identifying data when you take this quiz.
Can I take this test more than once?: Yes, you can retake the test any time to see how your The Competitive Instinct Profile results may have changed.
Will this quiz tell me if I am a narcissist?: While this profile explores dark traits like ego-validation and dominance, it is an achievement-mapping tool, not a clinical diagnostic for Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
Can my results help me build better work relationships?: Absolutely. By identifying if you are an individualist or a status-seeker, you can adjust your communication style to reduce friction and build more authentic trust.

The Competitive Instinct Profile: Take The Quiz

Step 1: Rate Yourself On The Following Items

For each statement, indicate how much you agree on a scale of 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree). For best results, answer honestly and trust your first instinct.

1. I consider a victory incomplete unless it results in a clear, public shift in my status or social hierarchy

2. I view 'teamwork' primarily as a strategic coordination of human assets to achieve my specific high-level objectives.

3. I feel most successful not when I hit a target, but when I see a visible gap between my performance and the failure of my peers.

4. I prioritize maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to ensure peak cognitive performance.

5. I find that I am more productive when working in a brightly lit environment.

6. I value receiving feedback from my peers even when it is not strictly positive.

7. I prefer to utilize digital tools for organization rather than traditional pen and paper.

8. I find that I am more creative when I have a strictly defined set of constraints.

Step 2: Submit Your The Competitive Instinct Profile Answers

After completing all questions, click below to get your results.

Disclaimer

This scale is designed for entertainment purposes and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.