THIS IS THE DVD VERSION OF THE PROGRAM. The DVD will be shipped to you. You will have online access to the handouts, multiple-choice test, and CE certificate, but you will not be able to view the video online. Before you watch the DVD, print a copy of the CE test so you can mark your answers while you watch. Then, go online, fill in your answers and print your CE certificate! If you have any questions, see FAQ #6.

Scott O. Lilienfeld, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Emory University.

Although most clinicians will never encounter a serial killer, all clinicians work with clients who exhibit traits of psychopathy to one degree or another. Such traits have strong implications for marital relationships, occupational functioning, and other areas of life that are the focus of psychotherapy.

In this video, Dr. Lilienfeld begins by clarifying the meaning of ‘psychopathy’ and differentiating it from related terms and conditions such as sociopathy, Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), Conduct Disorder, and criminal behavior in general. A number of misconceptions about psychopathy are addressed, and a very rich description of psychopathy is provided. During this discussion Lilienfeld describes a number of high-profile criminals (including serial killers) and explains why each of these individuals should or should not be considered psychopathic. The discussion covers Cleckley’s historic criteria, the two factors (components) that emerge from studies of these criteria and the different relationship that each of these factors has to anxiety and intelligence. As Lilienfeld focuses on the core personality characteristics of psychopaths, he muses (and provides some evidence) that psychopaths and heroes may be “twigs off the same branch.”

During the course of the video, Lilienfeld addresses the degree to which psychopathy is related to physical violence, substance abuse, and numerous other behaviors. In addition, fascinating data is presented concerning psychopaths’ responses to various forms of punishment.

The developmental course of psychopathy receives attention, including whether children should ever be described as psychopathic. Evidence is presented concerning the age at which psychopathic traits generally emerge. Lilienfeld also covers psychopathy in later life. Does psychopathy continue unabated during the second half of life, or does it “burn out” as lore suggests? Gender differences, cross-cultural differences, and, yes, even potential cross-species differences in the manifestations of psychopathy are discussed.

Throughout the presentation, Lilienfeld addresses key issues related to the conceptualization of psychopathy, such as whether psychopathy should be viewed as a categorical vs dimensional phenomenon, and the implications of such issues for assessment and treatment. Assessment of psychopathy receives substantial coverage. The critical role of corroborative information is emphasized, and several key assessment instruments are discussed. These include the PCL-R, developed by Hare, and the PPI, developed by Lilienfeld.

Implications of numerous topics for the treatment of psychopathy are interwoven throughout the presentation. In addition, Lilienfeld addresses the efficacy of common forms of psychotherapy (e.g., behavioral treatment) and explains that certain aspects of psychopathy may be more amenable to treatment than others.

Learning Objectives:

1) Viewers will be able to differentiate psychopathy from related terms and conditions such as sociopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder.

2) Viewers will be able to describe the core personality features of psychopathy.

3) Viewers will be able to summarize challenges to the assessment of psychopathy as well as key elements of an effective assessment.

4) Viewers will be able to state which aspects of psychopathy are more readily treated than others.

This program is appropriate for a broad range of mental health professionals (psychologists, social workers, and counselors).

CE credit: 3 hours

Dr. Lilienfeld does not receive funding from any corporate or private entities.