Refining the construct of psychopathy: Towards a hierarchical model

Psychopathy is characterized by diverse indicators. Clinical accounts have emphasized 3 distinct facets: interpersonal, affective, and behavioral, Res earch using the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R), however, has emphasi zed a 2-factor model, A review of the literature on the PCL-R and related m easures of psychopathy, together with confirmatory factor analysis of PCL-R data from North American participants, indicates that the 2-factor model c annot be sustained. A 3-factor hierarchical model was developed in which a coherent superordinate factor, Psychopathy, is underpinned by 3 factors: Ar rogant and Deceitful Interpersonal Style, Deficient Affective Experience, a nd Impulsive and Irresponsible Behavioral Style. The model was cross-valida ted on North American and Scottish PCL-R data, Psychopathy Screening Versio n data, and data derived from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Ment al Disorders (4th ed.; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) antisocial p ersonality disorder field trial.