The Utility of the Child and Adolescent Psychopathy Construct in Hong Kong, China

Abstract

This cross-sectional study examined the nature of child and adolescent psychopathy using the Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD) in 3,675 schoolchildren (ages 11–16) in Hong Kong, China. A confirmatory factor analysis observed a good fit for the three-factor model (callous-unemotional, impulsivity, narcissism) of APSD, with boys scoring higher than girls on narcissism and callous-unemotional traits. Modest construct validity was found with regard to expected relationships with internalizing and externalizing behavior problems. The previously observed higher scores on callous-unemotional traits in boys at older ages were replicated. Findings suggest that child psychopathy may be applicable in a non-Western culture, although the callous-unemotional factor may have a different meaning in China.

Notes

Note: AIC = Akaike information criterion; CFI = comparative fit index; NFI = normed fit index; NNFI = non-normed fit index; IFI = Bollen incremental fit index; RMSEA = root mean square error of approximation index.

^a Summary of fit indices for one-, two-, and three-factor models for the total sample, and for the three-factor model for separate samples of boys and girls.

Note: All df = 3,673. ASPD = Antisocial Process Screening Device.

Note: N = 3,675. APSD = Antisocial Process Screening Device; CBCL = Child Behavior Checklist.

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p < .001.

Note: American sample sizes fluctuate due to missing data.

^a Hong Kong, N = 3,675; U.S., N = 829–857.

^b Hong Kong, N = 1,948; U.S., N = 392–406.

^c Hong Kong, N = 1,727; U.S., N = 430–444.