Differentiating psychopathy from antisocial personality disorder: a triarchic model perspective

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• The triarchic model of psychopathy identifies three facets: disinhibition, meanness, and boldness.
• Current debates question the role of boldness in psychopathy's definition.
• Distinguishing psychopathy from antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the representation of the triarchic model's facets in the Psychopathy Checklist - Revised (PCL-R).
• To clarify the boundaries between psychopathy and ASPD.
• To determine the incremental contribution of boldness to psychopathy prediction.

Main Methods:

• Examined adult male offenders (N=326) in two correctional settings.
• Assessed the triarchic model facets' representation in the PCL-R.
• Compared findings with DSM-IV criteria for ASPD.

Main Results:

• Convergent and discriminant validity of the triarchic facets were evidenced.
• Boldness incrementally predicted PCL-R psychopathy, especially the interpersonal style.
• Boldness did not predict ASPD, distinguishing it from psychopathy.

Conclusions:

• The triarchic model's facets, including boldness, are distinct within the PCL-R.
• Boldness is integral to psychopathy, particularly its interpersonal aspects.
• Boldness differentiates psychopathy from ASPD, suggesting its centrality in psychopathy diagnosis.