Exploring sex differences between dimensions of psychopathy, executive functioning and youth gang membership

Abstract

ABSTRACT Previous investigation has not considered potential sex differences for psychopathy facets and executive functioning related to gang membership. Although empirical inquiry has begun to focus on psychopathy’s role in youth gang membership, this research is male-focused. The present study uses the baseline of the Pathways to Desistance study to investigate the relationship between psychopathy facets, executive functioning and gang membership across sex. Logistic regression in all boys and girls samples is performed to examine the potential relationship between the constructs across sex. Following this, Long’s test of predicted probabilities is implemented to examine potential differences across sex for key variables robustly. The findings suggest the socially/deviant facet of psychopathy is associated with gang status in girls only; the effect was smaller than for both peer delinquency and violent victimization. Further executive functioning and the interpersonal facet were not significantly associated with gang status in boys and girls. The results of Long’s test show no robust differences that exist across sex for variables of interest. Although sex differences are not robustly found in the current study it is suggested intervention strategies should consider the needs of girls, because strategies do not make these considerations.