The role of set-shifting ability in differentiating between subgroups of female violent offenders. Issue 5 (2nd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Karlsson, Linda C.; Soveri, Anna; Saarinen, Maiju; Weizmann-Henelius, Ghitta
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic psychiatry & psychology. Volume 27:Issue 5(2016)
• Page Start: 745
• Page End: 759
• Publication Date: 2016-09-02
• Subjects: Violent crime -- executive functions -- set-shifting -- female offenders -- personality disorder -- psychopathy; Forensic psychiatry -- Periodicals; Forensic psychology -- Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1080/14789949.2016.1152589
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1478-9949

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to extend the current understanding of the relationship between executive functions and violent crime in women. This was done by investigating whether set-shifting ability differentiated between subgroups of female violent offenders, with regard to criminal diversity and frequency of violent offenses. The study was conducted in a nationwide sample of 42 women imprisoned for violent crimes. Important characteristics common in violent offenders, such as certain personality disorders and substance abuse, were taken into account. The results indicated that offenders who only committed violent crimes had poorer set-shifting ability and less frequently personality disorders than offenders who had also committed non-violent crimes. Set-shifting ability was not connected to violent crime frequency.