Psychopathic traits predict reduced social punishment: Evidence from a large-sample survey and an experimental study

Abstract

Psychopathic traits are linked to reduced social cooperation, often prioritizing personal gain over others’ welfare. However, it remains unclear whether individuals with higher psychopathic traits are less likely to punish uncooperative behavior when acting as victims or observers. We examined this relationship through a large-scale online survey with hypothetical scenarios and a controlled experiment with economic games. In Study 1, psychopathic traits predicted reduced punishment across perspectives and costs. In Study 2, these traits predicted punishment only under cost conditions, driven by self-oriented justice sensitivity. These findings suggest egoism is the main reason for reduced social punishment among individuals with high psychopathic traits, which has implications for developing educational initiatives aimed at fostering their sense of justice and fairness.