Citation

Schlesinger LB. Aggress. Violent Behav. 1996; 1(4): 307-316.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

The concept of catathymic crisis is reviewed, beginning with its introduction in 1912. The term has been used differently by various authors over the years, most attempting to explain several forms of extreme violence and aggression without apparent motivation. Catathymic crisis can include acute violent reactions triggered by an individual whom the perpetrator has just met, or it may involve a more protracted and conflict-ridden relationship. In all cases, it is believed, an underlying unresolved emotional conflict creates an enormous amount of psychological tension, which is released through the violent act. In addition to reviewing the various conceptualizations of catathymic crisis, this paper provides brief clinical illustrations that typify the acute as well as the chronic form. A discussion of some forensic issues is also included.