The Self-Report Psychopathy Scale and Passive Avoidance Learning: A Validation Study of Race and Gender Effects

Monica K. Epstein, Norman G. Poythress, Karen O. Brandon

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The reliability and validity of the Self-Report Psychopathy Scale (SRPS) was examined in a noninstitutionalized offender sample of mixed gender and race. Adequate alpha coefficients were obtained for the total sample and across gender and race. The SRPS was compared to measures of trait anxiety and passive avoidance errors. SRPS total, primary, and secondary scores were positively and significantly correlated with trait anxiety and passive avoidance (commission) errors, but not omission errors. Employing hierarchical regression models, no anxiety, gender, or ethnic effects were found. Intelligence confounded the relationship between psychopathic traits and passive avoidance errors. Findings provide tentative support of the SRPS as a valid measure of psychopathy.

Original languageAmerican English
JournalAssessment
Volume13
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2006

Keywords

  • SRPS
  • psychopathy
  • gender
  • race
  • validity
  • passive avoidance errors
  • trait anxiety
  • intelligence

Disciplines

  • Health Law and Policy
  • Law
  • Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Mental and Social Health
  • Psychiatric and Mental Health

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