Multidirectional (auto- and hetero-) aggression in the practice of forensic psychiatry

Abstract

Introduction

The problem of coexistence of heteroaggression and autoaggression most clearly manifests itself in the field of forensic psychiatry. For example, in Russia, about 25% of criminals who committed aggressive actions had a history of suicide attempts.

Objectives

Identification of specific personality traits in individuals with multidirectional aggression.

Methods

In a continuous one-step study, relatively sane adults of both sexes were examined: 38 persons undergoing forensic examination with multidirectional aggression and 34 violent criminals. A wide range of forensic psychological techniques is used to identify aggression, suicidogenic and inhibitors of aggression. Nonparametric statistical methods were used: Spearman rank correlation coefficient (r) and Mann-Whitney (U).

Results

The leading role in the genesis of multidirectional aggression, in contrast to other types of aggression, playing the combination (p<0.01) to the presence of motivational aggressiveness (according to the Hand Test, U=556.6; p=0,046) and the willingness to show negative feelings at the slightest arousal (annoyance, irascibility according to BDHI, U=468.2; p=0,012), along with suicidal personal qualities, which is combined with the deficiency of auto- and heteroaggression inhibitors (value orientations; socio-normative, dispositional, communicative, emotional inhibitors, coping strategies, etc.). However, the psychological mechanisms of multidirectional aggression are relatively non-nosospecific and are similar in mentally healthy individuals and individuals with personality and organic mental disorders.

Conclusions

Multidirectional aggression in view of the increased risk of recidivism and personal and public danger should be taken into account by forensic experts when recommending psychocorrective measures in places of deprivation of liberty.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.