I wonder about the directionality of head injuries and psychopathology. Psychopaths often take risks, including physical risks, at a greater rate than the average person. Therefore, they might have more head injuries and more serious head injuries because of this. It would be interesting to use clumsy children as a control group.
While very severe head injuries have been documented to dramatically change people's personalities (Phineas Gage), it is possible that we could work with unusually fearless children to help them develop empathy, and if this is not possible in developping psychopaths, help them learn to conform their behaviors to be more prosocial.
This is such a good point, Kathie. That's what the original research article pointed out - the age-old chicken and the egg debate when it comes to head injuries and psychopathy. Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.
I wonder about the directionality of head injuries and psychopathology. Psychopaths often take risks, including physical risks, at a greater rate than the average person. Therefore, they might have more head injuries and more serious head injuries because of this. It would be interesting to use clumsy children as a control group.
While very severe head injuries have been documented to dramatically change people's personalities (Phineas Gage), it is possible that we could work with unusually fearless children to help them develop empathy, and if this is not possible in developping psychopaths, help them learn to conform their behaviors to be more prosocial.
This is such a good point, Kathie. That's what the original research article pointed out - the age-old chicken and the egg debate when it comes to head injuries and psychopathy. Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.
A great article with relevant insight. Kind regards from Miriam in Melbourne Australia
Fascinating - many questions on this, but, especially about Brenda Spencer and her well known head trauma on her bike