Psychopathy and depression: mutually exclusive constructs?

The present study was designed to evaluate the nature of the differences between psychopathy and depression. Based on previously articulated theoretical models, we hypothesized an inverse relationship between the two clinical constructs. Archival data were retrieved from 231 outpatient clients who had completed measures of depression and psychopathy. Correlational analyses and ANOVA's based on extreme groups supported the hypothesis. Implications for assessment, treatment, and research methodology are discussed.