Platelet Monoamine Oxidase Activity and Psychometric Correlates in Male Violent Offenders Imprisoned for Homicide or Other Violent Acts

Impulse control, lifetime history of aggression, suicide risk, & platelet monoamine oxidase activity was assessed in 82 male offenders imprisoned for homicide or other violent acts & in 54 control male subjects. Offenders showed significantly higher scores in Impulse Control, Past Feelings & Acts of Violence, Suicide Risk & Hopkins Symptom Check List-10 scales. Platelet monoamine oxidase activity was significantly lower in the offenders’ group compared to controls. The difference could not be attributed to smoking, & seems to be related to personality traits & behaviours that characterize the offenders’ group. (30 refs.) JA