Measurement Invariance and Convergent Validity of the Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL:SV) Across New Zealand Māori and European Samples

The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL:SV; Hart et al., 1995) in a sample of 514 male offenders in New Zealand; 333 identifying as Māori and 181 as NZ European. Correlational analysis showed convergent validity between PCL:SV Total, Factor and Facet scores and subscales of two dynamic item-based instruments used to monitor and manage people in prison or post-custody, although these relationships were stronger among NZ European compared to Māori men. Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analyses (MGCFA) supported the 3-factor model of PCL psychopathy which demonstrated partial scalar invariance of PCL:SV scores across Māori and NZ European cohorts. These findings indicate that application of the PCL:SV, in line with the three-factor model, is empirically and clinically defensible practice with both Māori and NZ European clients under correctional care.