An investigation into the construct validity of scores on the E-LSRP in a correctional sample

Abstract

The Expanded Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy scale (E-LSRP; Christian & Sellbom, 2016) was developed to improve upon the psychometric properties of scores on the Levenson SelfReport Psychopathy scale (Brinkley et al., 2008; Levenson et al., 1995). Using university and community samples, Christian and Sellbom (2016) demonstrated that E-LSRP scores exhibited good internal reliability, that a three-factor structure was the best fit for the data, and that associations between E-LSRP scale scores and external criteria were supportive of convergent and discriminant validity. To date, only one study has attempted to externally validate E-LSRP scores (Maheux-Caron et al., 2018). Specifically, results from a community sample demonstrated that E-LSRP scores exhibited good internal reliability and provided further support for the construct validity of E-LSRP scores. However, the generalizability of these studies' findings was limited by the use of university and community samples, suggesting that it is unknown whether these findings are applicable to individuals with higher levels of psychopathy - such those found in correctional facility. As such, the current study aimed to address this limitation by investigating the construct validity of scores on the E-LSRP in a sample of 533 male inmates. Results provided support for the reliability (α's from .75-.88) and construct validity of E-LSRP scores. Specifically, Confirmatory factor analysis results demonstrated acceptable fit for a threefactor model (RMSEA = .070 [.066 - .074]). Additionally, results from Pearson's r correlations and multiple regressions provided evidence supporting the convergent and discriminant validity of E-LSRP scores (Convergent: r's = .30-.65, p < .002; Discriminant: r's < .30, p > .002). Overall, these findings extend Christian and Sellbom (2016) and Maheux-Caron and colleagues' (2018) findings by establishing that E-LSRP scores demonstrate fidelity in assessing psychopathy in correctional settings and thus, may be a useful tool for the detection and assessment of psychopathy in these settings.