Academically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Schulz, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Psychopathy Test

One of the most widely-used instruments in the psychiatric assessment of psychopaths is the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). It is commonly used to rate a person's psychopathic or antisocial tendencies. People who are psychopathic prey ruthlessly on others using charm, deceit, or violence to get what they want. This test is based on the PCL-R, but also includes factor analysis.

Are you, or somehow you know, a psychopath? For each of the following items, indicate how well it applies to the person you are trying to rate below.

Question 1 of 21

Who do you want to assess for psychopathy?

I want to assess myself. I want to assess someone I know.

The IDR-PCT© is the property of IDR Labs International. The original research was provided by FBI advisor and criminal psychologist Robert D. Hare. The IDR-PCT utilizes Hare’s research, but is not associated with Hare, and is not the equivalent of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). The present test is in no way endorsed by, nor affiliated with, Hare, his associates, or similar entities. No infringement is intended by the present test.

The Psychopathy Checklist is a widely-used index and instrument for measuring psychopathic tendencies and behavior. The Psychopathy Checklist does not address all possible psychopathic identities and does not purport to accommodate respondents who seek to trick the measure or fall outside the normal spectrum of human psychology. Contrary to popular belief, the Psychopathy Checklist is not the only way of measuring psychopathy. Indeed, the output of the Psychopathy Checklist overlaps considerably with the narcissistic, borderline, and anti-social personality styles, as found in the alternative theoretical frame utilized in psychiatric manuals, such as the DSM. To test for these styles in the DSM framework, please consult our Personality Style Test.

Although all are designed to measure psychopathic tendencies and behavior, the IDR-PCT© should not be confused with other “Psychopathy Checklist Tests,” as authored by alternative research organizations. However, all are professionally-designed personality tests (or inventories) meant for measuring psychopathic tendencies and behavior in relation to psychiatric dispositions in the Western world. The IDR-PCT© is the property of IDR Labs International. The original research was provided by criminal psychologist Robert D. Hare. The authors of this online personality test are certified in the use of numerous personality tests and have worked professionally with typology and personality testing. The results of our online Psychopathy Checklist personality test are provided "as-is", and should not be construed as providing professional or certified advice of any kind. For more on our online personality test, please consult our Terms of Service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this Psychopathy Test measure?

This 20-item test measures psychopathic tendencies and antisocial behavior based on the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) framework and includes factor analysis.

Is this test free to take?

Yes, the IDR-PCT is provided free of charge.

How should I interpret my test results?

Your scores indicate the degree to which the described traits apply to the person rated. Higher scores suggest greater alignment with psychopathic tendencies as measured by this instrument.

Does this test diagnose psychopathy?

No. The test is a screening instrument for psychopathic tendencies and is not a clinical diagnosis.

What is a key limitation of this test?

The test does not address all possible psychopathic identities and may not be accurate for individuals who deliberately try to manipulate the results or fall outside the normal spectrum of human psychology.