The self-reported effects of PCP on human aggression

The elicitation of violent of psychotic behavior by phencyclidine (PCP) administration is well documented. There are indications, however, that behavioral responses to PCP may differ among PCP users as a function of background or personality characteristics. The present study examined 35 male jail inmates with histories of PCP use. Estimates of the nature and extent of drug use and self-reports of previous psychiatric hospitalizations were obtained in these subjects. The Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory was modified to reflect behaviors under the two simulated conditions of "No PCP" and "PCP" use. Results showed that PCP use was related to increased levels of hostility in our subjects when present age, age of first use, the frequency of use and suspicion and assaultive behavior when not using PCP was considered. Also, subjects with a history of psychiatric hospitalizations reported higher levels of assault when using PCP than those without psychiatric histories. These data suggest that the self-reported behavioral results of PCP use are associated with certain personality traits and background features.