From emotional blunting to moral choices: The role of alexithymia in trait psychopathy and utilitarian decision-making

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between alexithymia, psychopathy, and moral decision-making, focusing on how emotional processing influences utilitarian choices in moral dilemmas. Based on the dual-process theory, it is hypothesized that alexithymia, marked by difficulties in emotional awareness, predicts increased utilitarian decision-making, particularly in personal moral dilemmas. Psychopathy, characterized by reduced empathy and emotional arousal, is examined as a mediator in this relationship.

In Study 1, 238 university students completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale, and responded to moral dilemmas. Regression and mediation analyses revealed that psychopathy, particularly primary psychopathy, mediated the relationship between alexithymia and utilitarian choices in personal moral dilemmas. Study 2 involved 49 participants, divided into high and low alexithymia groups, who were assessed for physiological and subjective emotional responses to stimuli. Results supported the hypo-arousal theory, with high alexithymia participants showing reduced emotional responsiveness and more utilitarian decisions.

The findings suggest that emotional alteration in alexithymia, coupled with psychopathic traits, leads to greater reliance on cognitive strategies in moral decision-making. This study highlights the role of emotional processing in moral behavior and provides insights into the interaction between alexithymia and psychopathy in shaping moral choices.