The Youth Psychopathic Trait Inventory: factor structure and antisocial behaviour in non-referred 12–17-year-olds

Abstract

This paper extends previous research into the psychometric qualities of the Youth Psychopathic Trait Inventory (YPI) and the relationship of YPI scores with age, gender, and self-reported antisocial behaviour in a community sample. The results of a confirmatory factor analysis are in line with the former research, as they support a three-factor structure with good fit indices for 12–17-year-olds, thus suggesting that the YPI is useful for these age categories. The present findings also reveal a strong positive association between self-reported delinquency and psychopathic traits, as the latter are associated with serious and versatile antisocial behaviour in both genders. Gender and age differences emerged in the prevalence of psychopathic traits and the dynamics underlying antisocial behaviour.