HomeAbstract of 7th-icrpconfA Systematic Review of Adult Psychopathy in Correctional Settings: Mental Health Comorbidities, Criminal Correlates, and Intervention Outcomes

A Systematic Review of Adult Psychopathy in Correctional Settings: Mental Health Comorbidities, Criminal Correlates, and Intervention Outcomes

  • Jun 3, 2026
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Abstract Book of the 7th International Conference on Research in Psychology

Year: 2026

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A Systematic Review of Adult Psychopathy in Correctional Settings: Mental Health Comorbidities, Criminal Correlates, and Intervention Outcomes

Fathimath Yamaany Habeeb, Dr.Smita Pandey, Dr. Asha Srivastava

ABSTRACT:

Adult psychopathy in correctional settings presents significant challenges in assessment, management, and treatment due to its strong association with severe criminal behavior and complex mental health comorbidities. This systematic review aims to synthesize existing evidence on adult psychopathy within incarcerated populations, with a focus on its mental health comorbidities, criminal correlates, and the effectiveness of interventions. A comprehensive search of four major databases (Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and DOAJ) was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A total of 39 studies met the inclusion criteria, with most employing cross-sectional designs and focusing primarily on adult male offenders. The Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) and its variants were the most commonly used assessment tools. Findings consistently demonstrate strong associations between psychopathy and elevated rates of recidivism, aggression, and violent offending. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) emerged as the most prevalent comorbidity, alongside significant interactions with trauma-related conditions such as PTSD. Importantly, emerging evidence indicates that structured correctional interventions targeting criminal behavior can reduce recidivism, even among individuals with high psychopathy scores. Furthermore, limited but notable findings suggest that certain psychopathic traits, particularly interpersonal and affective features, may show measurable change following intensive treatment. These findings challenge traditional assumptions regarding the untreatability of psychopathy and highlight the importance of integrated, evidence-based approaches within correctional systems.

Keywords: Comorbidity; Correctional; Intervention; Psychopathy; Recidivism