Head computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scanning were
done in 23 patients with organic mental syndromes. Violent behavior was
observed in 14 patients. A nonviolent group consisted of nine patients.
Five cases of local lesion in the anterior-inferior temporal lobe were
revealed in the violent group. It is suggested that the release of programs
for violent behavior may result from the unilateral destruction of
amygdaloid nuclei or adjacent structures coupled with the paroxysmal
stimulation of preserved limbic structures by the mechanisms of
kindling.Abstract Teaser