Psychometric Properties of Parent Ratings on the Inventory of Callous–Unemotional Traits in a Nationally Representative Sample of 5- to 12-Year-Olds

Abstract

The psychometric properties of the parent-report version of the Inventory of Callous–Unemotional Traits (ICU) in school-aged children requires further examination. In a nationally representative sample of U.S. children ( N = 1,064, M age = 8.42, 51.7% boys), the current study examined the factor structure, measurement invariance, and the moderating role of parent rated ICU scores on conduct problems. Results supported (a) a two-factor model consisting of a CU factor and a limited prosocial emotions (LPE) factor; (b) an invariant structure of the ICU across child sex, as well as (to a lesser extent) across child age and parent sex; and (c) the moderating role of the LPE factor on the relationship between conduct problems and relevant outcomes (i.e., impairment, need for treatment). Normative data on the parent-report version of the ICU for elementary-aged school children in the United States were also presented. Clinical implications regarding use of the parent-report version of the ICU for school-aged children are discussed.