Cannabis use and impulsivity in violent behaviour

Compared to the general population, patients suffering from psychosis and, in particular, those going through a First Phase of Psychosis, show a high prevalence of violent behavior against others. This first phase of psychosis is now recognized as being at high risk of violent behavior [1], compared to later phases of the disease [1], [2]. Thirty-three percent of violent behavior in psychotic patients would be committed during this period, including 16% of serious violence and a high proportion of minor violence [1]. The prevention of these behaviors in programs for the early treatment of psychotic disorders is of major importance, making it possible to reduce them, to avoid the stigmatization of patients but also to improve their social evolution. Thus, mental health services oriented towards the early management of psychotic disorders would have an essential role to play in the evaluation and prevention of violent behavior.