Personality Traits of Mentally Disordered Males Who Committed Homicide

Background: The relationship between personality traits and criminal behavior has not been sufficiently investigated. This study was done to determine the personality traits in a group of criminals who have committed homicide. Methods: This study was conducted to compare the personality traits in three groups of people in Tehran during 2014. The statistical population was examined 3 communities; first, forensic psychiatric patients; Second, people who accused homicide without psychiatric diagnosis; and, matched group (with no diagnosis and crime). The study sample included 121 males; they have been divided into 3 groups: psychiatric patients who have committed homicide (n=41), murderers without any major psychiatric disorder (n=40) and control group which includes non-committed and non-patient (n=40). The cases were evaluated by a short form of Neo questionnaire. Results: There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of personality traits, which included neurosis, extroversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness. The most significant difference was in extroversion and conscientiousness variables. Psychiatric patients’ committed homicide showed higher scores than those of non-patient and the control group. Psychiatric patients had lower scores in extroversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness characteristics in comparison with the other two groups. Conclusion: Psychiatric patients who have committed homicide have more Irascible traits. Non-patient cases who committed homicide have a tendency to introspection and egocentrism and they are socially compatible in comparison with patient groups. These subjects are among dispassionate ones. The results of this study failed to demonstrate a significant difference between non-patient cases who have committed homicide and the control group.