Criminal Mind: A Forensic Psychiatrist on Maniacs, Psychopaths, Killers, and the Nature of Violence

The author of the book is a forensic psychiatrist who has worked in the British penal system for many years. Ten stories from his practice are ten fates of people who found themselves in circumstances that led to crimes.

In telling about his heroes, the author raises questions much broader than his professional duties require. What drives a person to commit a crime? Can it be prevented? Can the psychology of a criminal be changed?

A thoughtful and engaging study allows the reader to not only penetrate hospital wards, high-security prisons, and courtrooms. Deeply empathizing with his charges, Nathan offers a different perspective on people hidden behind labels like “psychopath,” “serial killer,” “sexual offender.”

The psyche is not formed by itself. Mental processes are influenced by a person's reactions on individual, institutional, and social levels. This determines how their aggressiveness will manifest. Regardless of the origins of a person's propensity for violence, their interaction with others is constantly changing. “We must show genuine interest in the person.” In this, according to the author, lies the responsibility of society and those around them.

Type of publication: pocketbook.