An examination of general issues of criminal responsibility and of the problematic relationship between mental disorder and criminality is followed by detailed consideration of some particular offender/patient groups. Particular attention is paid to the psychopath; the sexual offender; the arsonist; and the relationship between alcohol, drug abuse, and crime. Separate chapters are devoted to the problems involved in assessing dangerous behavior and to the consideration of female offenders who manifest substantial signs of emotional and mental instability. The book concludes with proposals for reform of the present system of dealing with offenders/patients, particularly concerning the role of special hospitals. Social workers, attorneys, law enforcement officers, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, and corrections administrators will find the text applicable to their professions. Two indexes, notes, extensive chapter references, and suggested readings are provided. (Author summary modified)