How Childhood Traumas and Dissociative Processes Influence Autobiographical Memory Among Forensic Inpatients with Antisocial Personality Disorder

People with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) exhibit specific characteristics in autobiographical memory processes, yet few studies have investigated how early traumatic experiences shape identity-related memories in this population, especially among those with or without psychopathic traits (ASPD ± P). The present study aims to examine the role of dissociation, psychopathy, and childhood trauma on the content and the structure of self-defining memories among 52 forensic psychiatric inpatients diagnosed with ASPD ± P. Multiple regression analyses showed that the recall of multiple memories was primarily associated with exposure to early traumatic experiences and low levels of dissociation. In contrast, the production of nonintegrative memories was predominantly predicted by dissociation and interpersonal–affective traits of psychopathy (Factor 1 of the PCL-R), which proved more influential than trauma exposure itself. The recall of life-threatening memories was facilitated by trauma exposure and low dissociation, indicating that these emotionally intense events remain readily accessible and narratable. Better understanding of these mechanisms among forensic patients with ASPD may guide targeted therapeutic interventions.