The extreme regressive reaction of a psychopath.
Recent work on the phenomena associated with the concept of psychopathy has made more confident the clinician's identification of the syndrome, and enables a better examination of certain behaviors related to the diagnosis. One of these is an extreme form of regressive reaction often associated with adaptation to a new restrictive environment. In dynamic terms this can be seen as a primitive attempt to seize control of the maternal universe, perhaps re-enacting a successful strategy of the infant past. The case of a convicted offender with an extensive psychiatric history is described, and consideration is given to the management of such a case in the institutional environment.
Conacher
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GN
Regional Treatment Centre, Kingston, Ontario.
Fleming
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RL
D000328:Adult; D000987:Antisocial Personality Disorder / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D012043:Regression, Psychology; D012934:Social Isolation