Psychological Factors of Crime: Narcissism and Personality Disorders

Psychological Factors of Crime

Narcissism

• Characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, need for admiration, and lack of empathy
• Narcissistic individuals may engage in criminal behavior to achieve a sense of power and control
• May be more prone to violent or aggressive behavior due to fragile self-esteem and sensitivity to criticism

Personality Disorders

• A pervasive pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that deviate from societal norms
• Can increase the likelihood of criminal behavior due to impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and lack of empathy
• Examples of personality disorders linked to criminal behavior:
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • Psychopathic Personality Disorder

Antisocial Personality

• Characterized by a pervasive disregard for the rights of others and a lack of empathy
• May engage in criminal behavior without remorse or guilt
• Traits:
  • Impulsivity
  • Lack of empathy
  • Manipulation of others
  • Pathological lying
  • Lack of responsibility

Mental Illness

• Mental health disorders can contribute to criminal behavior, but not all individuals with mental illness engage in criminal activity
• Certain mental health disorders may increase the risk of criminal behavior, such as:
  • Schizophrenia (disorganized thinking and behavior)
  • Bipolar Disorder (impulsive behavior during manic episodes)
  • Conduct Disorder (aggressive and destructive behavior in youth)
• Treatment of underlying mental health disorders can reduce the likelihood of criminal behavior

Psychological Factors of Crime

Narcissism

• Characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, need for admiration, and lack of empathy
• Driven by need for power and control, leading to potential criminal behavior
• Prone to violent or aggressive behavior due to fragile self-esteem and sensitivity to criticism

Personality Disorders

• A pervasive pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that deviate from societal norms
• Increase likelihood of criminal behavior due to impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and lack of empathy
• Linked to criminal behavior:
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • Psychopathic Personality Disorder

Antisocial Personality

• Characterized by a pervasive disregard for the rights of others and a lack of empathy
• Engage in criminal behavior without remorse or guilt
• Traits:
  • Impulsivity
  • Lack of empathy
  • Manipulation of others
  • Pathological lying
  • Lack of responsibility

Mental Illness

• Mental health disorders can contribute to criminal behavior, but not all individuals with mental illness engage in criminal activity
• Certain mental health disorders increase the risk of criminal behavior:
  • Schizophrenia (disorganized thinking and behavior)
  • Bipolar Disorder (impulsive behavior during manic episodes)
  • Conduct Disorder (aggressive and destructive behavior in youth)
• Treatment of underlying mental health disorders can reduce the likelihood of criminal behavior

Explore the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, including narcissism and personality disorders, and their impact on behavior and relationships.