[Personality disorders: psychophysiological and neuropsychological correlates of risk]

In forensic practice there is an urgent need for criteria which separate personalities with a high risk for violent behaviour from those less likely to cause complications upon discharge or relaxed enforcement. Based upon a sample of over 64 expert opinions on conditional discharge from imprisonment, especially violent offenders and the diagnostic groups of personality disorders and substance abuse were investigated. Dangerousness and risk assessment was based on the criteria of the Psychopathy-Check-List (PCL-SV). Psychopathy has a high coincidence with addiction, hyperkinetical disorders and antisocial behaviour. In our sample of 64 offenders a standardized psychophysiological stress test (with a visuo-acoustic startle stimulus) was administered. Physiological indices consisted of skin conductance, pulse frequency, skin temperature and muscle tension (frontalis). Significant correlations between physiological data and cognitive and personality variables based upon extensive psychodiagnostic assessment are reported. Individual differences in stress reactivity with regard to psychopathy (Hare) and implications for therapy are further discussed.