Diagnosing Psychopathy : The Role of Psychopathy in the Swedish Correctional System

Abstract: This study investigates if there is a scientific consensus among experts in regard to diagnosing psychopathy, treatment of psychopaths, and if psychopathy is a reliable/valid predictor for recidivism. These results have been compared to how psychopathic diagnoses’ are used within the Swedish correctional system. Questionnaires were answered by 11 experts in the field of psychiatry and psychology. The results showed that no consensus exists in regard to diagnosing psychopathy, or its treatment. As for predicting recidivism there is someagreement. In short, different professionals claim different views. The Department of Corrections official position was static, e.g. psychopaths can be easily identified and most should be denied treatment. If an inmate was deemed as psychopathic the possibility for rehabilitation, furloughs or other alleviations, were greatly diminished. Keywords: Psychopathy, psychopathic diagnosis, treatment, recidivism, correctional system