ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how certain individuals who are categorized on the basis of and alienated by their antisocial behaviour may be thought about in relation to their minds. It examines how they may benefit from a psychological treatment approach, mentalization, which focuses explicitly on minds in relation to other minds. The chapter describes the thinking behind an evolving service at the Portman Clinic for the treatment of patients with a diagnosis of Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Although numerous studies have shown that genetic, neuro-anatomical, and biochemical factors are implicated in ASPD, research also shows that the incidence of childhood neglect, abuse, trauma, and loss is much higher in people with ASPD than in the normal population. Relationships in individuals with ASPD tend to be rigid, hierarchical, and controlling, as exemplified in dismissive attitudes towards women, who are viewed as inferior, or in the “gang culture” of organized crime.
