The role of behavioural inhibition and activation systems in psychopathy: Motivational differences across Egocentric, Callous, and Antisocial traits

Psychopathic traits are widely conceptualised as multidimensional constructs comprising interpersonal, affective, and behavioural components. Traits have been linked to individual differences in motivational systems, particularly the Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) and Behavioural Activation System (BAS). Comparatively little research has examined how psychopathy dimensions relate to individual differences in BIS/BAS sensitivity within non-clinical samples. This cross-sectional study examined associations between Egocentric, Callous, and Antisocial traits and BIS/BAS subcomponents (Drive, Fun Seeking, Reward Responsiveness) in a non-clinical adult sample. Participants (N = 315) self-reported measures of psychopathy and BIS/BAS. Hierarchical regression analyses conducted on participants identifying as male or female (n = 298) indicated that the Egocentric was associated with lower BIS and higher BAS Drive, Antisocial was positively associated with BIS, BAS Drive, and Fun Seeking, and Callous was associated with lower BIS and BAS Reward Responsiveness, but higher BAS Drive. These findings indicate differentiated patterns of association between psychopathic traits and BIS/BAS dimensions. Interpretation of BIS effects is limited by use of the Carver and White BIS/BAS scales which do not distinguish between BIS and the Fight-Flight-Freeze System (FFFS). The findings should be interpreted as reflecting this operationalisation of BIS/BAS rather than a direct test of revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory.