Chapter 11: Psychopathy

What does psychopathy in the media look like?

• in the media: show people who are charming on surface but cold, manipulative, chronically antisocial

What are the features of psychopathy?

• lack remorse and empathy, shallow or absent emotions, deceitfulness, impulsive

Describe Hervey Cleckley mask of sanity?

• described people who seem normal and rational but show emotional deficit and antisocial behaviour

• - high on psychopathy:

• void of emotions

• do not play by rules

• put on good show

What are the 4 facets?

1. arrogant, deceitful interpersonal style

2. deficient affective experiences

3. impulsive and irresponsible behaviours

4. early onset and diverse antisocial behaviours

What are the 3 types of assessment methods

1. rater based tools - PCL-R

2. Self report tools - youth psychopathic traits, B-Scan

3. informant ratings - screening device

What is factor 1 of PCL-R

Personality

• facet 1: interpersonal: charm, cunning

• facet 2: affective: no remorse, shallow

What is factor 2 for PCL-R

behaviours

Facet 3: lifestyle: lack goals

Facet 4: antisocial: poor behaviour controls

What are the 4 types of theories of psychopathy

• evolution

• brain

• genetics

• developmental

Explain Emotional deficit model

• problem is a poverty of emotion, including low fear and poor recognition of others distress

Explain genetic, brain based, and developmental models

• psychopathic traits arise from interaction of heritable vulnerabilities, atypical brain function and harsh environments

What characteristics do people have when they are high in psychopathy?

• start offending earlier

• offend more frequently

• show both reactive and planned violence

What are the treatment outcomes historically?

• high psychopathy clients show poor treatment motivation, high dropout, high violence after treatment - pessimism

What are the best treatment for people with psychopathy

• RNR Principles, focus on behavioral/lifestyle factors, CBT

what is 2 component model

1. specific responsivity issue - manage treatment + careful staff selection and maintenance

2. criminogenic needs - target linked to factor 2 scores