Psychopathic trait offenders and recidivism : the approach implemented by the Maltese probation and correctional facilities

Abstract

The main aim of this research is to identify the interventions adopted by probation/parole officers and, forensic psychologists when working with offenders who have psychopathic characteristics and, to examine the effect which psychopathy has on recidivism. As research studies show that offenders with psychopathic traits are hard to treat, moreover, they tend to offend at a higher rate than non-psychopaths, starting from a young age and, involve themselves in different crimes. This study provides a holistic approach as to how psychopathy effects individuals and, how these individuals react to society, based on their biopsychosocial framework. Using qualitative analysis, a thematic approach is adopted to extract three relevant themes for the study, namely; Treatment, Practitioners` Thoughts and Attitude and, Recidivism, based on semi-structured, in-depth interviews with the staff. Participants` feedback conveys the feeling of hopelessness expressed by the staff when working with psychopathic trait offenders, the importance of having trained professional, who are aware of what psychopathy entails, the fundamentality of investing in a functional system, the benefits of aftercare and, the interviewees` thoughts about treatment and medication. Furthermore, elements affecting recidivism, such as; age and criminal versatility are analysed, together with other psychopathic traits, namely; manipulation, deceit and their insusceptibility to punishment. Based on the material gathered from the interviews, the author formulates recommendations for further studies and proposes an ethical process which could be implemented to aid professionals in their everyday tasks and, also to help target psychopathy, with the hope of reducing the recidivism rates thus, ensuring a safer community.