Psychometric correlates of episodic violent behaviour. A multidimensional neuropsychological approach.
Three groups of neuropsychiatric out-patients, homogeneous according to parameters of violent behaviour, were identified in a previous study using a cluster analysis procedure and compared in this study on psychometric variables. These groups were (a) a group manifesting frequent, impulsive violence (n = 35), (b) a non-violent group (n = 57), and (c) a group whose violent behaviour was much less frequent and severe than in the first group, and more provoked (n = 31). Impulsively violent patients showed language and visual-perceptual deficits, but no other neuropsychological or intellectual deficits. The MMPI F, K and Ma and MacAndrews Alcoholism scales and a perceptual organisation factor derived from the Holtzman Inkblot Test significantly discriminated groups. Results of this and the initial study have implications regarding psychological aspects of aggression and underlying biological mechanisms.
Mungas
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Department of Community Health, University of California, Davis School of Medicine.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D003617:Dangerous Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007806:Language Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory; D008875:Middle Aged; D010556:Personality Tests; D011594:Psychometrics; D014754:Violence