Theory based gender differences in psychopathy subtypes

•Investigated gender differences in psychopathy subtypes•Model-based cluster analysis was performed on the highest third psychopathy scorers•Results supported the existence of subtypes in male and female undergraduates•Limited gender differences in the presentation of subtypes were observed•Women in the secondary subtype evidenced more pathology than secondary men

Psychopathy is conceptualized as a heterogeneous construct in both men and women. To investigate possible gender differences in Karpman's (1941) and Lykken (1995) typologies, a model-based cluster analysis was conducted on male and female undergraduates scoring high on the PPI. Two clusters emerged in men and women consistent with primary and secondary variants on PPI factors, behavioral inhibition, anxiety, aggression, and borderline features. The male and female clusters were not markedly different. However, secondary women did demonstrate more pathology and internalizing problems than secondary men. The significant differences found and their implications are discussed.