Cofactors in the commission of violent crimes: a self-psychology examination
Article Abstract:
Random acts of extreme violence are often committed in the presence of some cofactor that influences the outcome of the event. These cofactors are frequently other people, who act to 'egg on' or incite violence in those who may not otherwise have a history of violent behavior. Drawing upon the theories of Heinz Kohut, it is hypothesized that these acts of violence can be viewed as the consequences of a pathology or disturbance in the sense of self. Individuals who may be prone to violent crimes, especially those characterized by impulsive and unstable behavior, include individuals with borderline, antisocial, and particularly narcissistic personality disorders. From the point of view of self pathology, the mechanism for the predisposition to violence begins with an impaired sense of self that leads to certain pathological behaviors, such as addictions, perversions, or delinquencies, to stimulate the sense of self and provide a temporary sense of structure. The resulting behavior is collectively termed the 'disintegration products' of the self. The anxiety-relieving nature of such behavior or fantasies gradually weakens, requiring the individual to intensify the behavior. To provide additional structure, a 'selfobject' is selected (the accomplice), who is also pathological, and thus cannot provide the empathic response required to maintain psychological balance in the subject. Lack of empathic response from the selfobject triggers a 'narcissistic rage', which leads to violence as a means of avoiding rejection by the selfobject accomplice. Thus, many so-called senseless acts of violence may be explained using theories of self pathology. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: American Journal of Psychotherapy
Subject: Psychology and mental health
ISSN: 0002-9564
Year: 1990
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Dynamics from communications data
Article Abstract:
A progress report on the development of a complex dynamical model based on communications data from recorded conversations between therapist and patient during therapeutic sessions is presented. The system makes use of assymmetric networks with many nodes and the communications need not be limited to verbal. The model is a prototype and further development is necessary. Uses are projected not only in psychiatry but in different fields where social sciences play a role.
Publication Name: American Journal of Psychotherapy
Subject: Psychology and mental health
ISSN: 0002-9564
Year: 1992
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