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The extreme regressive reaction of a psychopath

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Abstract

Recent work on the phenomena associated with the concept of psychopathy has made more confident the clinican's identification of the syndrome, and enables a better examination of certain behaviors related to the diagnosis. One of these is an extreme form of regressive reaction often associated with adaptation to a new restrictive environment. In dynamic terms this can be seen as a primitive attempt to seize control of the maternal universe, perhaps re-enacting a successful strategy of the infant past. The case of a convicted offender with an extensive psychiatric history is described, and consideration is given to the management of such a case in the institutional environment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Psychiatric Services, Regional Treatment Centre (Ontario), Kingston Penitentiary, K7L 4V7, Kingston, ON

    Geoffrey Neil Conacher M.B., M.R.C.Psych., F.R.C.P.C. (Director)

  2. Penetanquishene Mental Health Centre, Penetanquishene, Ontario

    Russel Leroy Fleming M.D., F.R.C.P.C. (Psychiatrist-in-Chief)

Authors
  1. Geoffrey Neil Conacher M.B., M.R.C.Psych., F.R.C.P.C.
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  2. Russel Leroy Fleming M.D., F.R.C.P.C.
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Conacher, G.N., Fleming, R.L. The extreme regressive reaction of a psychopath. Psych Quart 67, 1–10 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02244271

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