Psychopathic Traits and Politics: Examining Affiliation, Support of Political Issues, and the Role of Empathy
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2018
Department
Psychology
Abstract
The relation of psychopathy to morality has been extensively examined, yet few studies have considered relations to political attitudes, which involve moral decision-making. We examined how psychopathic traits relate to political affiliation and opinions on political issues, using the triarchic conceptualization of psychopathy (Patrick, Fowles, & Krueger, 2009) and testing empathy components as mediators. Interpersonal-affective (Boldness and Meanness) traits were higher in Republicans compared to Democrats. Moreover, Boldness was associated with conservative opinions on economic issues, while Meanness evinced stronger relations to conservative opinions on social issues. Triarchic domains also evidenced unique associations to issues concerning minorities or discrimination. Further, empathy mediated relations between Meanness and decreased support for certain issues (e.g., affirmative action). Overall, psychopathy, particularly the interpersonal-affective traits, appear pertinent to political attitudes, while empathy deficits may statistically account for unique effects of Meanness.
Publication Title
Personality and Individual Differences
Volume
131
First Page
142
Last Page
148
Recommended Citation
Preston, O. C.,
Anestis, J.
(2018). Psychopathic Traits and Politics: Examining Affiliation, Support of Political Issues, and the Role of Empathy. Personality and Individual Differences, 131, 142-148.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/15098
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