In one case, psychiatric opinion on key issues was valuable because of the patient's history, intellectual disability, and psychiatric disorders. His history of offending and disturbed behavior were sufficient evidence to suggest he would pose a risk to the community if released. In the second case, there was little information of predictive value, no diagnosis of a major psychiatric disorder, and no history of treatment. However, by virtue of the way his behavior and personality were responded to by the correctional administration, this inmate was classified as dangerous. Both cases illustrate the long-term impact of psychiatric attitudes on the management and eventual release of serious offenders. 20 references