Publication Date

2014

Journal Title

PLOS One

Abstract

Preliminary evidence suggests that theory of mind and empathy relate differentially to factors of schizotypy. The current study assessed 686 undergraduate students and used structural equation modeling to examine links between a four-factor model of schizotypy with performance on measures of theory of mind (Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test [MIE]) and empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index [IRI]). Schizotypy was assessed using three self-report measures which were simultaneously entered into the model. Results revealed that the Negative factor of schizotypy showed a negative relationship with the Empathy factor, which was primarily driven by the Empathic Concern subscale of the IRI and the No Close Friends and Constricted Affect subscales of the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire. These findings are consistent with a growing body of literature suggesting a relatively specific relationship between negative schizotypy and empathy, and are consistent with several previous studies that found no relationship between MIE performance and schizotypy.

Volume Number

9

Issue Number

11

Pages

14

Document Type

Article

EPub Date

2014/11/22

Status

Faculty

Facility

School of Medicine

Primary Department

Psychiatry

PMID

25415195

DOI

10.1371/journal.pone.0113853


Included in

Psychiatry Commons

Share

COinS