Group therapy in an outpatient setting with borderline and narcissistic delinquents on probation

DSM-III criteria are used to describe the pathological manifestations of narcissistic and borderline disorders. The former gives rise to the Grandiose Self and the need to control the world. The delinquent act is an attempt to gain such control. The latter demonstrates ego splitting, primitive terror and rage stemming from the failure of the primary maternal introject. The attempt to compensate for inner turmoil and lack of object relatedness leads to delinquent acts. Citing three probationers referred by the court for group therapy, benefits and obstacles encountered in the use of outpatient group therapy are discussed as an approach to solving the unique problems presented by these delinquents.