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Abstract

On the assumption of psychotherapy indication, a multidimensional assessment was carried out in a study group consisting of 103 imprisoned male offenders (mean age 20.8 years). It included a demographic and personal history inventory, psychological tests, and diagnosis according to the multiaxial classification. In addition, psychotherapy adherence was categorized, and therapy objectives were formulated. Participants showed multiple developmental risk factors and average-to-good results in language-free IQ-test scores. Furthermore, they displayed a more-pronounced negative attitude to life and higher rates of aggression toward themselves. Main ICD-10 disorders included personality and behavior disorders, substance use disorders, conduct disorders, and emotional disorders. The spectrum of psychiatric morbidity within the psychotherapy group was largely comparable with that of imprisoned and forensic populations, whereas the total prevalence was slightly higher. A quarter of the original sample failed after five test sessions to fulfill the final indication for a subsequent psychotherapeutic treatment.

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Multidimensional Assessment of Young Male Offenders in Penal Institutions

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