Describe at least one concern about using the PCL across racial and ethnic backgrounds

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• The original PCL was designed using a sample of Caucasian male offenders in Canadian prisons. Because of the homogeneity of the sample, there is question as to whether the PCL can be generalized to other groups.
• The PCL was later tested on an African American population, and these inmates with psychopathic features were found to be less impulsive. Impulsivity is a key feature of psychopathy.
• However, other research, including meta-analyses as well as research on female offenders, found no significant racial differences.
• Most recent research indicates that any racial/ethnic differences in psychopathy scores are minimal and nonsignificant.
• Nonetheless, in light of the fact that there are many PCL instruments on the market, continued research is warranted before firm conclusions can be drawn.