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Exploring the Relationship Between Cognitive Abilities and Adaptive Components of Psychopathic Traits

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  • Guillaume Durand
  • Bart P. F. Rutten
  • Jill Lobbestael

Abstract

Although multiple studies have suggested a negative relationship between psychopathic traits and cognitive abilities, a few identified positive associations between psychopathic traits and specific executive functions. This study examined the relationship between a set of cognitive functions and the adaptive traits associated with psychopathic personality. Participants ( N  = 107) completed measures of psychopathic traits and adaptive personality traits, as well as a series of cognitive-ability-based tasks (measures of working memory, response inhibition, cognitive discrimination, and long-term memory). Results showed that adaptive psychopathic traits were associated with faster response times on measures of working memory, cognitive discrimination, and long-term recall. In contrast, psychopathic traits related to impulsivity were associated with slower response times in incongruent trials of measures of cognitive discrimination and short-term recall. Higher levels of adaptive and psychopathic traits related to fearlessness and dominance were associated with better performance in a working memory task without sacrificing accuracy for speed. These findings further support the multidimensionality of psychopathy; whereas its maladaptive traits are related to cognitive impairments, its adaptive traits seem to be related to cognitive superiority.

Suggested Citation

  • Guillaume Durand & Bart P. F. Rutten & Jill Lobbestael, 2023. "Exploring the Relationship Between Cognitive Abilities and Adaptive Components of Psychopathic Traits," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(2), pages 21582440231, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sagope:v:13:y:2023:i:2:p:21582440231173823
    DOI: 10.1177/21582440231173823
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Guillaume Durand, 2018. "Demystification of the Relationship Between Psychopathy and Happiness," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 19(2), pages 381-395, February.
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