Classification and assessment of personality disorders in mentally disordered offenders: a psychological perspective

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Abstract
Assessment of personality disorders must be guided by an empirically supported classification. Current classifications have serious limitations for clinical practice generally and forensic services in particular. Although reliable diagnosis can be achieved through structured assessments, high rates of comorbidity question the assumption of independent disorders, and evidence for the validity of the classification system is weak. Prominent reasons are the absence of a consistent theory of personality, the lack of an empirical basis for the selection of categories and their organization, and reliance on a categorical system. Personality disorders are abnormal variants of normal personality traits and their organization is most appropriately represented by a dimensional system. Developments in personality research indicate that personality dysfunctions, including psychopathic and aggressive traits, can be accommodated by the five‐factor model and the interpersonal circle. These provide a framework for classification assessment, and treatment. Categorical diagnoses are not incompatible with dimensional measurement, but assessment needs to focus on the analysis of dysfunctional traits.

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