Background-Although adult antisocial personality disorder is generally preceded by a pattern of childhood/adolescent conduct problems, only a subset of those who manifest these developmental precursors go on exhibit significant antisocial behavior in adulthood. To date, however, researchers have yet to resolve the origins of either stability or change in antisocial behavior from childhood/ adolescence to adulthood.

The role of psychologists in the interrogation of prisoners and consultants to law enforcement agencies is discussed within the context of military involvement and National Security. There has been considerable discussion in the media about the role of health care professionals as interrogators and consultants. The American Psychological Association (APA) established a Presidential Task Force on Psychological Ethics and National Security (PENS), which examined the current APA Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct. The report concluded that psychologists may be involved in the role of supporting an interrogation but are not to be involved in any way in unethical behaviors and have a duty to report acts that involve torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading acts. Psychologists are also expected to consult when they face ethical dilemmas and must be sensitive to the problems involved in mixing inconsistent roles such as health care provision with services as consultants to interrogators. They must refrain from involving themselves in multiple relationships. Comments and criticisms of the PENS report are discussed and there is elaboration on the current state of the debate.

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