Long-term stability of self-reported psychopathic traits in former at-risk adolescents in youth welfare and juvenile justice institutions.

Abstract

Background: The paucity of research examining the long-term self-reported stability of psychopathic traits in adolescents in residential care (both child welfare and juvenile justice system-placed juveniles) and potential influencing factors is a matter of concern. Since psychopathic traits tend to be associated with an earlier onset of delinquent behavior, higher levels of delinquent behavior, and higher rates of recidivism, it is important to study this phenomenon in more detail. The present study aims to examine the long-term stability of psychopathic traits, including its underlying dimensions, in young adults with a history of residential care.

Method: A 10-year follow-up study was conducted, in which a subset of participants who had previously consented to be re-contacted (n = 511) were re-contacted (data collection between 2018 and 2020). A total of n = 203 subjects (average age at follow-up of 25.7, SD = 1.8) completed the questionnaires online, including the Youth Psychopathic Traits Inventory (YPI) (mean time interval between baseline and follow-up; 121 months, SD = 11.7).

Results: At the group level, a significant decrease in psychopathic traits was observed, encompassing the underlying dimensions (i.e., Grandiose-Manipulative [GM], Callous-Unemotional [CU], and Impulsive-Irresponsible [II]).The Reliable Change Index revealed that approximately one-third of adolescents demonstrated a substantial decrease in psychopathic trait symptoms, as well as in GM, CU, and II symptoms. The strongest predictor of psychopathic traits in young adulthood was found to be psychopathic traits at baseline (approximately 10 years earlier).

Discussion: The results of this study suggest a lower long-term stability of self-reported psychopathic traits over a time period of 10 years than was previously assumed in institutionalised youths over a shorter period of time. Research is needed to control for the influence of different aspects of caregiving on outcomes regarding psychopathic traits in order to better interpret these results.