Boundary violations and personality traits among psychiatrists
Garfinkel, P.E.; Bagby, R.M.; Waring, E.M.; Dorian, B.
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne de Psychiatrie 42(7): 758-763
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0706-7437 PMID: 9307837 DOI: 10.1177/070674379704200709Document Number: 523920
This study examined the contributing factors leading to sexual abuse of patients by psychiatrists, which may include therapists' psychopathic and narcissistic personality styles. Data from a prospective cohort of residents training in psychiatry were examined to evaluate the personality traits of two psychiatrists subsequently convicted of boundary violations. Results showed that the two psychiatrists had antisocial attitudes and behaviors, as well as a defensive cognitive-perceptual style. Their pathologic characters were identifiable at the beginning of their residency. It is, therefore, concluded that for some psychiatrists, repetitive sexual abuse of patients represents one aspect of an ongoing pattern of exploitative relationships. The professional and ethical implications of these findings, as they relate to early identification for those at risk, are considered.