Neurobiological factors as predictors of cognitive-behavioral therapy outcome in individuals with antisocial behavior: a review of the literature

Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol. 2014 Nov;58(11):1279-96. doi: 10.1177/0306624X13494694. Epub 2013 Jul 9.

Abstract

This review focuses on the predictive value of neurobiological factors in relation to cognitive-behavioral therapy outcome among individuals with antisocial behavior. Ten relevant studies were found. Although the literature on this topic is scarce and diverse, it appears that specific neurobiological characteristics, such as physiological arousal levels, can predict treatment outcome. The predictive value of neurobiological factors is important as it could give more insight into the causes of variability in treatment outcome among individuals with antisocial behavior. Furthermore, results can contribute to improvement in current treatment selection procedures and to the development of alternative treatment options.

Keywords: antisocial behavior; cognitive–behavioral therapy; neurobiology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder / physiopathology*
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder / psychology
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder / therapy
  • Arousal / physiology*
  • Child
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Frontal Lobe / physiopathology
  • Hormones / blood
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / physiopathology
  • Pituitary-Adrenal System / physiopathology
  • Prefrontal Cortex / physiopathology
  • Prognosis
  • Treatment Outcome*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Hormones