EPA-1809 – Criminal Development and Psychoapthology in Youth and Adolescence

Abstract

Introduction

Criminal behavior in adolescence is often considered as a consequence of inadequate social support or involvement with risk social groups. Current research shows that youth showing signs of specific psychopathology may be more vulnerable to criminal behavior.

Objectives and methods

The aim of the study was to compare of developmental psychopathology in adolescence with criminal experience (n=20) to the control noncriminal group. We conducted a structured interview and psychological assessment.

Results

In our pilot study we identified that adolescence with specific developmental psychopathology – i.e. ADHD and conduct disorders are more prone to crime, comparing to the control group at statistically significant level (p< 0.01). The intensity of psychopathology may be connected to the profanity of ongoing criminal behavior.