Antisocial Personality Disorder and Its Comorbidities in Two Prisons in Kenya Through the Eyes of Insecure Attachment Styles.
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Date
2024-10
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Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
Multigenerational transmission of insecure attachment seems to continue despite its devastating effects on lives. Parents often appear unaware of how caregiving practices can lead to insecure attachment styles and potentially contribute to criminal behaviour. This research aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of insecure attachment styles, assess the prevalence of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), identify its comorbidities, and examine the relationship between insecure attachment and ASPD among prison inmates in Kenya. The study was grounded in attachment theory and social control theory, employing a correlational research design. The target population comprised 1740 inmates at Shimo la Tewa Maximum Prison, with a sample of 237 inmates completing the questionnaires. Data was collected using the Adult Attachment Scale and the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-IV. The study found high rates of insecure attachment styles, with 62.45% of inmates scoring high on attachment-related anxiety and 52.74% on avoidance. Antisocial personality traits were prevalent in 36.3% of inmates. High rates of comorbid conditions were observed, including generalized anxiety (69.2%), alcohol use (59.9%), PTSD (43.0%), persistent depression (37.1%), and drug use (35.9%). Significant positive correlations were found between both anxiety (r = 0.269, p=0.000) and avoidance (r = 0.142, p = 0.028) dimensions of insecure attachment and antisocial personality disorder, with anxiety showing a stronger association. The study concludes that there is a significant relationship between insecure attachment styles and antisocial personality disorder among prison inmates in Kenya, confirming that early life experiences and attachment patterns play a crucial role in the development of antisocial traits and subsequent criminal behaviour. The study recommends implementing comprehensive attachment-based interventions in the Kenyan prison system, prioritizing mental health screening and treatment throughout the judicial process, and developing early intervention programs in communities to prevent the development of insecure attachment styles and antisocial behaviours. Additionally, the study suggests implementing policies that mandate psycho-education for all involved with the criminal justice system, ensuring that sentencing considers a criminal's mental health status, particularly their attachment-related issues.
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Master of Clinical Psychology
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Citation
Ngunjiri, R. N. (2024). Antisocial Personality Disorder and Its Comorbidities in Two Prisons in Kenya Through the Eyes of Insecure Attachment Styles. Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences