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Executive Function Deficits and Emotion Dysregulation as Neurocognitive Predictors of Violent Behaviour in Forensic Populations: A Systematic Review and Clinical Implications

Author

Listed:
  • Ndorenyin Saviour Udofia

    (Department of Clinical Psychology, University of South Wales, UK)

  • Dumebi Okuagu

    (Department of Clinical Psychology, University of South Wales, UK)

  • Anthony, Clement Ogbeh

    (Department of Public Health, National Open University of Nigeria)

  • Ihuoma Goodness Dike

    (Department of Public Health, University of Hertfordshire, UK)

Abstract

Background: This systematic review synthesises existing literature on executive function deficits and emotion dysregulation as predictors of violent behaviour in forensic samples. Methods: PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for empirical studies published between 2015 and 2025. Included studies focused on adult forensic populations, employed validated measures of EF and/or emotion regulation (ER), assessed violent or aggressive outcomes, and utilised cross-sectional, cohort, or review designs. Selection followed PRISMA guidelines. Data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers, with effect sizes synthesised narratively due to methodological heterogeneity. Study quality was assessed using an adapted NIH/NHLBI risk-of-bias tool. Results: From 1,597 initial records, 55 studies met inclusion criteria. Inhibitory control deficits consistently distinguished violent from non-violent offenders. Meta-analytic evidence indicated modest EF impairments in justice-involved adults compared to controls (d = 0.55 overall; d = 0.72 for adults). Modest, significant correlations were found between ED measures and aggression (pooled r = 0.25–0.33), with ED explaining incremental variance in aggression beyond trait emotionality. Study quality was mixed, with few prospective designs and substantial methodological heterogeneity across studies (I² > 80% for ER-aggression relationships).

Suggested Citation

  • Ndorenyin Saviour Udofia & Dumebi Okuagu & Anthony, Clement Ogbeh & Ihuoma Goodness Dike, 2026. "Executive Function Deficits and Emotion Dysregulation as Neurocognitive Predictors of Violent Behaviour in Forensic Populations: A Systematic Review and Clinical Implications," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 10(3), pages 259-266, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:10:y:2026:i:3:p:259-266
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Garofalo, Carlo & Velotti, Patrizia, 2017. "Negative emotionality and aggression in violent offenders: The moderating role of emotion dysregulation," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 51(C), pages 9-16.
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