The Moderating Effects of Filial Piety on the Association between Child Abuse and Psychopathic Traits in Chinese Adolescents: A Transcultural Study

• In Event: Intergenerational Criminology, Panel 2. Family and Intergenerational Perspectives II

Abstract

Child abuse has been identified as a critical predictor for psychopathy, one of the major personality disorders associated with numerous criminal behaviours. This study investigates the role of filial piety as a moderating factor in the relationship between child abuse and psychopathic traits among Chinese adolescents. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional design, the research involved 862 students aged 14-19 from public and polytechnic schools in Jiangsu Province, China. Contrary to existing literature, our findings indicate that only physical and emotional abuse from parents serve as predictors of psychopathic traits, while parental neglect does not. Filial piety, a cornerstone of Chinese culture encompassing collective values and familial hierarchies, was found to moderate the impact of child abuse on psychopathic tendencies. It acted as both a protective and exacerbating factor under specific conditions. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive psychometric tools and interventions, contributing to a more nuanced global understanding of the psychosocial impact of child abuse and construct of psychopathy.

Author

• Shihan PENG, University of Cambridge