Antisocial Personality Disorder in Offenders: Two Case Studies in the Personal Construct Psychology

Drndarević, Nikola (2025) Antisocial Personality Disorder in Offenders: Two Case Studies in the Personal Construct Psychology. In: Prison Life Organization and Security: Criminological, Penological, Sociological, Psychological, Legal, and Security Aspects. Institute of Criminological and Sociological Research, Belgrade, pp. 300-325. ISBN 978-86-80756-77-6

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Abstract

This study explores the subjective worlds of offenders with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) using Personal Construct Psychology (PCP) and repertory grid methodology to provide an alternative perspective on antisocial behavior. Given the high prevalence of ASPD in correctional settings and its association with elevated risk behaviors and treatment resistance, exploring alternative frameworks may contribute to addressing existing challenges in treatment outcomes. Two case studies were presented, employing content and structural analysis to illustrate the heterogeneity within ASPD and its overlap with other personality disorders. Case 1’s personality structure is stable and permeable, defined by dominance and criminogenic constructs that position aggression as an extension of his antisocial role. In contrast, Case 2 is marked by instability between incompatible constructs of cruelty and empathy, generating internal tension that leads to impulsive aggression. Case 1 resembles ASPD with narcissistic traits, while Case 2 suggests ASPD with borderline traits, potentially situating them along primary and secondary psychopathy dimensions. The findings suggest that an integrated approach, combining categorical approach and PCP perspective, offers a more comprehensive understanding of ASPD's complexities. This idiographic study offers implications for risk assessments and treatment strategies based on individual ASPD profiles. Keywords: Antisocial personality disorder, Offenders, Personal construct Psychology, Risk assessment, Treatment

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