Abstract

An ample volume of research evidence supports the conclusion that drug use/abuse is correlated with violent behaviour. Some studies have shown that co-morbidity also appears to be predictive of violent behaviour. The research evidence indicates gender differences, while socio-economic and familial factors play a role, too. Method. We conducted a retrospective study of the clinical files of four public psychiatric outpatient facilities during five years. The objectives of the research were to identify and analyze relationships between: a) cannabis use/abuse and violent behaviour and b) cannabis use/abuse, psychopathology, and violent behaviour. The study sample consisted of 1,582 subjects. The data, gathered in a dedicated database, were processed by applying univariate and multivariate analysis models. Results. Subjects who used/abused cannabis showed a high prevalence of violent behaviour. Regardless of the type of psychiatric disorder, the use of cannabis appears to be an evident risk factor. Significant correlations also emerged between cannabis use/abuse and the type of violent behaviour, especially self-inflicted injury. Evidence also emerged that other factors are implicated. This is consistent with the current literature proposing multi-causal explanations of violent behaviour.

Autore Pugliese

• Martinelli Domenico

Tutti gli autori

• Carabellese F. , Candelli C. , Martinelli D. , La Tegola D. , Catanesi R.

Titolo volume/Rivista

RIVISTA DI PSICHIATRIA

Anno di pubblicazione

2013

ISSN

0035-6484

ISBN

Non Disponibile

Numero di citazioni Wos

Nessuna citazione

Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

Non Disponibile

Numero di citazioni Scopus

12

Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

Non Disponibile

Settori ERC

Non Disponibile

Codici ASJC

Non Disponibile