Reliability Generalization of the Psychopathy Checklist Applied in Youthful Samples

Abstract

This study examines the average reliability of Hare Psychopathy Checklists (PCLs) adapted for use in samples of youthful offenders (aged 12 to 21 years). Two forms of reli ability are examined: 18 α estimates of internal consistency and 18 intraclass correlation (two or more raters) estimates of interrater reliability. The results, an average internal consistency reliability estimate of .85 and an average interrater reliability estimate of .91, are both acceptable. The only study characteristic that accounts for a sizable amount of variance in both forms of reliability is the standard deviation of the PCL total score reported for a study. Total score variation and reliability estimate magnitudes are positively related.