Psychopathology in adopted-away offspring of biologic parents with antisocial behavior.

A study of 246 adoptees aged 10 to 37 years separated at birth from biologic parents is used to study genetic heritability of antisocial behavior and to delineate the extent and quality of "antisocial spectrum" conditions. Evidence is presented for a genetic factor in adoptee antisocial behavior and for the following as "spectrum" conditions: (1) hysteria in adult females (Briquet's syndrome) or multiple somatic complaints without medical explanation in younger female subjects and (2) mood swings possibly associated with the symptom of audible thoughts.