Latent variable model of triarchic psychopathy constructs in an incarcerated offender sample: Factor reliability and...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Criminology
• Forensic Psychology

Background:

• The triarchic model of psychopathy proposes three core traits: disinhibition, meanness, and boldness.
• These traits are believed to underlie the interpersonal, affective, and behavioral aspects of psychopathy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the latent variable model of the triarchic traits in an Italian incarcerated population.
• To assess the cross-cultural applicability and psychometric properties of the triarchic model.

Main Methods:

• A latent variable model was specified using data from 273 males and 83 females across 10 Italian prisons.
• Multiple psychometric inventories were used as indicators for the triarchic constructs: Triarchic Psychopathy Measure, Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised, MMPI-2-RF, and NEO-FFI.

Main Results:

• The correlated three-factor solution demonstrated adequate model fit, with strong loadings of scales onto their respective triarchic factors.
• The model's fit and factor loadings remained comparable when analyzed for males only.
• Triarchic factors showed expected correlations with normative personality, clinical dysfunction, prison behavior, and release prognosis.

Conclusions:

• The study validates the latent variable model of the triarchic traits in an Italian incarcerated sample, extending prior research from the U.S.
• The findings support the triarchic traits' utility as a framework for integrating diverse findings in psychopathy research across different cultural contexts and assessment methods.