How psychopathic traits develop over time

The term “psychopath” is commonly used in popular media, often reflecting an individual who engages in antisocial behaviour without remorse for their actions. However, psychological research suggests that psychopathy is a multi-dimensional construct, which includes elements of meanness, disinhibition/recklessness, and social boldness.   

Though the extremes of these traits may resemble what we think of when we hear the word “psychopath”, these dimensions can be traced on a continuum in the general population – in other words, these traits are not simply present or absent, but exist in varying degrees.  

During adolescence and emerging adulthood, a period often associated with greater risk-taking and antisociality, higher levels of these psychopathic traits may further increase one’s willingness to engage in these behaviours. This may mark the start of problematic life outcomes (eg difficulties at work, interpersonal relationships, substance use). But how do these traits develop over time?  

Working with Carlo Garofalo (University of Perugia, IT, and lead author), Maureen Reynolds, and Levent Kirisci (University of Pittsburgh, US), we conducted a research study that found that these traits may develop differently over time. More importantly, it is the path of development for these traits that may best predict problem behavioural outcomes. 

We tracked a group of adolescents, age 16 until 22, with assessments every three years. We asked participants to complete a personality measure which assessed their trait levels of boldness, meanness, and disinhibition. At age 22, we also asked for self-assessments of relevant behaviours, such as likelihood to commit violent acts and overall psychosocial difficulties. A clinical interview was also conducted to assess Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) symptoms. 

Most notably, we found three patterns of development for meanness (being antagonistic towards others) and disinhibition (being reckless, careless). Most participants were either (a) low in these traits, and stayed lower compared to their peers, or (b) in the midrange of the traits, and became less mean or disinhibited. 

However, a small proportion of participants (approximately 10-15%) showed a developmental pattern which was marked by high levels of meanness and disinhibition at 16, which stayed stable, or even increased over time. These individuals were the most likely to report greater antisocial behaviours (violence, ASPD symptoms), and more general life problems at work, school, and relationships at age 22. 

These findings highlight that not only do psychopathic traits change over adolescence, the way that they develop also differs. This insight is important because, if one assumed a “one-size-fits-all" developmental path, it could mask specific patterns that may lead to greater instances of problematic behaviours.  

Additionally, these findings provide some potential insights into prevention and intervention efforts. Interventions may be useful to improve self-control, decision-making, and anger management skills, which may translate to reduced problematic behaviour later in life. 

Read the journal article.