Psychopathy and Low Reactive Autonomic Nervous System Function as a Buffer against Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Victims

• In Event: Bringing Gender In: Issues in Developmental and Biosocial Criminology

Abstract

Individuals differ in their reaction to victimization events. Some individuals exhibit fewer negative outcomes while some are impacted to a higher degree and develop depression, reliance on substances, and show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One trait that can potentially act as a buffer to victimization is psychopathy. Individuals who exhibit increased psychopathy tend to exhibit low empathy, high callous-unemotionality and low reactive autonomic nervous systems (ANS). Thus, individuals who are more biologically and psychologically callous might be less likely to suffer PTSD as a consequence of victimization. Herein, the goal of the current study is to understand what biological and psychological factors act as a buffer to negative effects of victimization, primarily focusing on PTSD. Data are from a primary data collection conducted at a university in Texas. Data collection included both extensive self-report survey and biological data. A logistic regression was used to see if PTSD was lower in female victims who exhibited increased levels of psychopathy along with decreased ANS reactivity. The findings and implications of this study are discussed.

Authors

• Richard Lewis, Sam Houston State University

• Danielle Boisvert, Sam Houston State University

• Todd Armstrong, University of Nebraska, Omaha