Date of Award
Spring 5-14-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department/Program
Forensic Psychology
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Diana Falkenbach
Second Reader
Cynthia Calkins
Third Advisor
Mark Fondacaro
Abstract
Psychopathy is a multidimensional personality construct traditionally studied in offender populations but increasingly recognized in high-functioning, nonclinical groups. This study examined the expression of psychopathic traits—Fearless Dominance, Self-Centered Impulsivity, and Coldheartedness—among legal professionals at various career stages, including pre-law students, law students, and practicing attorneys. Using the Psychopathic Personality Inventory–Revised (PPI-R) alongside validated measures of related constructs (e.g., narcissism, aggression, affect, behavioral activation/inhibition), the study assessed trait distribution, construct validity, and contextual influences in a sample of 82 participants. Results provided partial support for the PPI-R’s construct validity in this population. Total psychopathy and Self-Centered Impulsivity were positively associated with narcissism, aggression, and negative affect, while Coldheartedness was negatively associated with empathy and behavioral inhibition. Discriminant validity was less consistent, with several null findings for theoretically unrelated constructs. Notably, Self-Centered Impulsivity was inversely associated with years of legal experience, supporting the socialization hypothesis. Group comparisons revealed a distinctive profile among legal professionals, marked by elevated impulsivity-related traits and unexpected patterns in Coldheartedness and Fearless Dominance when compared to offender and police samples. Additionally, alcohol use was associated with impulsivity-related traits and legal role variables (e.g., trial work, job level), highlighting the relevance of occupational context in trait expression. These findings support the multidimensional nature of psychopathy and underscore the need to contextualize trait expression within structured, high-functioning professions such as law.
Recommended Citation
Rush, Jessica, "Successful Psychopathy: Trait Expression, Construct Validity, and Career Differences Among Lawyers, Law Students, and Pre-Law Undergraduate Students" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/343
