Some Superego Considerations in Crime and Punishment

Abstract

Various criminal acts, and varieties of criminals are examined from a psychoanalytic viewpoint. The many ways by which the “normal” individual can evade his superego restrictions and commit antisocial acts are discussed. The habitual criminal can be considered to have specific defects in both ego and superego. In addition, the various aims and effectiveness of our systems of punishment are examined in relation to the psychopathology which they are supposed to correct. Some modifications of existing punishments are suggested, that seem more compatible with our psychoanalytic understanding of the individual.