Psychopathic Traits Test
Take our free psychopathic traits screening test. Assess callousness, impulsivity, and antisocial tendencies. Not a clinical diagnosis. Instant results.
What is psychopathy?
Psychopathy is a personality construct characterised by a cluster of interpersonal, affective, and behavioural traits: superficial charm, lack of empathy or remorse, manipulativeness, impulsivity, callousness, and thrill-seeking. It exists on a continuum — psychopathic traits can range from mild (associated with some positive social outcomes in low doses) to severe (associated with significant harm to others).
Psychopathy overlaps with but is distinct from Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD). ASPD is diagnosed based on behavioural criteria (criminal acts, deceitfulness, irresponsibility). Psychopathy is a more specific construct focusing on personality traits — particularly the affective component (emotional shallowness, lack of fear, deficient empathy). Not all people with ASPD have psychopathic traits, and not all people with psychopathic traits meet ASPD criteria.
Psychopathic traits are more common than most people assume — research suggests around 1% of the general population have levels consistent with clinical psychopathy, with higher rates in corporate leadership and criminal justice populations. Subclinical psychopathy (elevated traits below clinical threshold) is considerably more prevalent.
Psychopathy versus the popular conception
Media portrayal of psychopaths as invariably violent is inaccurate. The majority of people with high psychopathic traits are never violent. 'Successful psychopaths' — people with high psychopathic traits who function within legal and social norms — exist across all professions. Research suggests certain psychopathic traits (boldness, emotional regulation, strategic thinking) can be advantageous in high-pressure environments like surgery, law, and military leadership.
The concept of the 'corporate psychopath' has received significant research attention. Studies suggest psychopathic traits are over-represented at senior levels in some organisations, associated with charisma, decisiveness, and an absence of anxiety that aids performance in high-stakes situations — alongside the potential for interpersonal harm when empathy is consistently absent.
This complexity is important context for interpreting test results. Elevated psychopathic traits do not predict violence or harm — they represent a personality profile that comes with both risks and, in some contexts, functional advantages. What matters is self-awareness and the choices made within that personality structure.
About this test
This test uses items drawn from the Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale (LSRP) and the Triarchic Psychopathy Measure (TriPM), assessing the three commonly identified factors: meanness (callousness, lack of empathy), boldness (fearlessness, social dominance), and disinhibition (impulsivity, irresponsibility).
Psychopathy is a research construct rather than a formal DSM diagnosis. The closest DSM-5 diagnosis is Antisocial Personality Disorder, and even that requires clinical assessment. This test measures trait levels, not disorder status — think of it as a personality profile rather than a clinical screen.
A very high score on this test warrants reflection — particularly if you notice patterns of difficulty maintaining close relationships, disregard for others' feelings, or repeated impulsive decisions with consequences for yourself or others. These patterns are workable with the right support.
How to Interpret Your Results
| Score Range | Category | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 0–12 | Low Psychopathic Traits | Your responses suggest low psychopathic trait levels. You demonstrate empathy, impulse control, and social responsibility. |
| 13–24 | Moderate Traits | Some psychopathic traits are present at a moderate, subclinical level. This is common in the general population. |
| 25–32 | Elevated Traits | Your responses indicate elevated psychopathic traits. This profile may create interpersonal difficulties and ethical blind spots. |
| 33–40 | High Traits | Your responses suggest high psychopathic trait levels. Professional psychological support may be beneficial. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is psychopathy the same as being evil?
No. Psychopathy is a personality construct, not a moral judgment. People with psychopathic traits can and do make ethical choices — the construct describes a set of cognitive and emotional tendencies, not a predetermined course of action.
Can psychopathy be treated?
Research on treatment is limited and mixed. Some evidence suggests that approaches targeting specific behaviours (rather than attempting to change core personality) can reduce harmful outcomes. Cognitive-behavioural approaches focusing on consequence awareness and emotional skills have shown some promise, particularly in younger individuals.
Are psychopaths always violent?
No. The vast majority of people with high psychopathic traits are not violent. Violence is associated with the disinhibition and impulsivity factors — but many 'successful psychopaths' have high meanness and boldness without disinhibition, and function well within social structures.
Can you be a psychopath and still feel love?
People with psychopathic traits typically have deficits in the affiliative emotions that underpin deep attachment, but they can experience pleasure in relationships, particularly when the relationship serves their goals. The emotional experience tends to be more instrumental than in people without these traits.
What should I do if I'm concerned about my score?
If you are concerned about patterns in your own behaviour — particularly impacts on others — speaking to a psychologist specialising in personality is a constructive step. Self-awareness, which completing this test demonstrates, is itself a positive indicator.