The Factor Structure and Validity of the Psychopathy Checklist-Short Version When Used With Autistic Psychiatric...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

• The Psychopathy Checklist Short Version (PCL:SV) is a widely used psychopathy assessment tool.
• Its utility in autistic adults within inpatient psychiatric settings requires further investigation.
• Understanding psychopathy in this population is crucial for effective treatment and risk management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and construct validity of the PCL:SV in autistic adults in inpatient psychiatric care.
• To examine the association between PCL:SV scores and clinical outcomes, including treatment progress and length of stay.
• To explore the PCL:SV's performance in individuals with and without intellectual disabilities.

Main Methods:

• Data collected from 282 autistic adults at two 12-month intervals.
• Reliability assessed using omega coefficients.
• Validity examined through regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and correlational analyses with HCR-20 and START.

Main Results:

• The PCL:SV Total, Factor 1, and Factor 2 demonstrated satisfactory to high reliability and construct validity.
• Higher PCL:SV scores correlated with poorer treatment progress, longer hospital stays, and prior criminal offending.
• Factor 2 scores were associated with autism/intellectual disability traits, while Factor 1 linked to forensic history and personality disorders.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary evidence supports the PCL:SV's use with autistic adults in inpatient settings, including those with intellectual disabilities.
• The PCL:SV can differentiate between clinical presentations and may aid in treatment planning and risk assessment.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the PCL:SV's application in specialized forensic and psychiatric populations.