Factor structure and construct validity of the psychopathic personality inventory in a forensic sample

Valerie M. Gonsalves, Julia E. McLawsen, Matthew T. Huss, Mario J. Scalora

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

A wealth of research has underscored the strong relationship between PCL-R scores and recidivism. However, mounting criticism cites the PCL-R's cumbersome administration procedures and failure to adequately measure core features associated with the construct of psychopathy (Skeem, Polaschek, Patrick, & Lilienfeld, 2011). In light of these concerns, this study examined the PPI and the PPI-R, which were designed to measure core personality features associated with psychopathy (Lilienfeld & Andrews, 1996; Lilienfeld & Widows, 2005). Study one examined the PPI relative to the PCL-R and examined its factor structure. The instruments shared few significant correlations and neither the PCL-R nor the PPI significantly predicted recidivism. Study two examined the PPI-R relative to the PCL-R, the PPI, both history of violence and future criminal activity and measure of related constructs. The PPI-R was significantly correlated with measures of empathy and criminal thinking and the factors were related to a history of violence and predicted future violent criminal behavior.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)176-184
Number of pages9
JournalInternational Journal of Law and Psychiatry
Volume36
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2013

Keywords

  • Assessment
  • Criminal thinking
  • Empathy
  • Psychopathy
  • Recidivism

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • Law

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