PCL-R Psychopathy and its Relation to DSM Axis I and II Disoders in a Sample of Male Forensic Patients in a Belgian Security Hospital

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the psychopathy, assessed using the PCL-R, and DSM Axis I and II disorders in a Belgian adult male forensic patients (N= 84). Regarding Axis I disorders, diagnoses of psychopathy were associated only with diagnoses of substance abuse/dependence. Regarding Axis II disorder, psychopathy diagnoses were associated with antisocial personality disorder. This relationship was asymmetrical, as psychopathy was highly predictive of antisocial personality disorder but not vice versa. Furthermore, there was a significant positive association between antisocial personality disorder and PCL-R total scores, Factor 1 and 2 scores, and Facet 1, 3, and 4 scores. There was also a significant positive correlation between narcissistic personality disorder and PCL-R Factor 1 and Facet 1 scores. These findings are congruent with the international research literature and have potential therapeutic relevance, as Cluster B disorders including antisocial personality disorders are associated with low treatment motivation and compliance (Widiger & Corbitt, 1997; Robins, Tipp, & Przybeck, 1991). Overall, diagnoses of psychopathy were rather specific and unrelated to most major mental disorders (psychoses, mood or anxiety disorders) and personality disorders (Clusters A and C).

Keywords:

• forensic patients
• major mental disorder
• personality disorder
• psychopathy
• PCL-R

This study was made possible with the support of the Equal Opportunities Office of the Social Action and Health Division of the Belgian Ministry for the Walloon Region. The authors thank the medical, paramedical, and nursing staff of the Les Marronniers Hospital (Tournai, Belgium) for their collaboration.