Defensiveness in exhibitionists

Abstract

Focuses on the excessive defensiveness and the psychodynamic factors that typify many exhibitionists. After reviewing some of the literature describing the marked guardedness of these offenders, a detailed discussion follows of the Rorschach protocol of an exhibitionist revealing his core emotional conflicts. These test results illustrate the value of the Rorschach in eiliciting material that in many cases would be difficult to obtain because of these patients' characteristically suspicious and defensive stance concerning their offense and their personal lives. The case demonstrates the significant role of psychological testing in the forensic process, particularly for defensive, less verbal, and unpsychologically-minded offenders.