Determining the factor structure of the Psychopathy Checklist: A converging approach

Abstract

Three statistical and six psychometric methods were used to obtain converging validation of the correct number of factors to extract in the Psychopathy Checklist. A two-factor solution was obtained reflecting, respectively, criminal/anti-social behaviors and salient personality characteristics of the psychopath. The present results support the two- factor interpretation proposed by Templeman and Wong (1987) and Harpur, Hakstian, and Hare (1988). Earlier factor analytic studies which suggest a five to seven-factor solution are probably the result of an overextraction of factors. A converging approach in determining the correct number of factors to retain is strongly encouraged.