Olivia Potts Olivia Potts

A lesson in understanding serial killers and child molesters

The forensic psychotherapist Gwen Adshead shows remarkable compassion when treating some of Britain’s most reviled criminals

Broadmoor psychiatric hospital, Crowthorne, Berkshire, where Gwen Adshead treated many of her patients. [Alamy] 
issue 03 July 2021
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  • The Devil You Know: Stories of Human Cruelty and Compassion

    Gwen Adshead

    Faber, pp. 320, £16

True crime is having a moment: every day there’s a new documentary, book, podcast, or blockbuster film announced, detailing the grisliest, most depraved actions imaginable. Once only the domain of fanatics, true crime is now mainstream. At its best, it’s fascinating, shining a light on human behaviour, but at its worst, it can be voyeuristic and dehumanising.

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