Abstract
This paper presents findings concerning crimes committed by mental patients within 24 hr. of intake of such illicit substances as amphetamines, LSD, heroin, and phencyclidine. The number of crimes committed under the influence of amphetamines and amphetamine-like substances exceeded significantly the number of crimes committed under the influence of any other single substance, a finding consistent with previous observations linking amphetamines to violent and antisocial behavior. Personality and situational factors were considered to play a significant role in the crimes associated with intake of LSD and heroin, whereas impairment of judgment rather than upsurge of violence was implicated in the crimes that involved phencyclidine abuse.
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