Flynn, Robert; (1997) Personality and criminal behaviour: The ability of the MCMI-11 to distinguish offender groups. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationship between personality (MCMI-11, Millon, 1987) and offending behaviour. More specifically, to investigate if sexual offenders could be differentiated from violent offenders. It was predicted that violent offenders would report personality profiles characterised by Passive-Aggressive, Antisocial and Aggressive-Sadistic traits. Conversely, sex offenders will have elevated levels of Avoidant, Dependent and Schizoid Traits. The relationship between index offence and forensic history was explored to determine the degree of concordance between offences. Sixty eight offenders were recruited from three location sites (Probation Service, Inpatient and Outpatient). Within this group there were 45 participants who had been convicted of a sexual offence and 19 for violent offences. Comparisons were made between offender groups and site of recruitment on personality scores. Further, a series of discriminant analyses were performed to determine the ability of personality scales to predict offender groups. Statistical analyses, indicated that the two groups were similar on personality profiles, although high levels of personality disturbance and response bias was observed. Furthermore, there was a suggestion of a degree of correspondence between index offence and previous convictions. Possible explanations for the results are discussed, and the clinical and theoretical implications explored.

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