Problems with the BIS/BAS scales or Lykken’s model of primary psychopathy? A reply to Poythress et al. (2008)

Citing a dearth of research on the Carver and White (1994) BIS scale in offender samples, its limited coverage of the psychological functions attributed to the BIS construct, and the fact that the BIS scale has a stronger association with measures of negative emotionality than with fear sensitivity, Poythress, Edens, Landfield, Lilienfeld, Skeem, and Douglas (2008) “recommend a moratorium on the use of the BIS scale to test Lykken’s theory of primary psychopathy ” (p. 269). In this response, we: 1) present evidence that supports the reliability and validity of the BIS scale in a large offender sample involving multiple prison sites, 2) challenge unfounded assertions regarding the inadequate coverage of the BIS, 3) propose that the problems cited by Poythress et al. are as much a function of Lykken’s model as Carver and White’s measure, and 4) conclude that further research is needed to clarify the distinction between primary and secondary psychopathy and that the BIS/BAS scales may play a valuable role in this regard. In response to perceived problems with the Carver and White (1994) BIS scale, Poythress, Edens, Landfield, Lilienfeld, Skeem, and Douglas (2008) “recommend a moratorium on the use of the BIS scale to test Lykken’s theory of primary psychopathy ” (p. 269). In this response