The perverse organisation: Plenary talk to the International Association for Forensic Psychotherapy, 31 May 2024

This talk introduces the idea of perverse dynamics in organisations as whole systems, beyond individual character. Perversion involves a state of mind at a social systemic level that holds to persistent delusions in the face of reality. Five indicators of systemic perversion are outlined: a narcissistic culture; the predominance of denial and perverse certainty; the use of accomplices; an instrumental and abusive culture; and the perpetuation of the perverse position. Brief examples are given from corporate cultures. Finally some points are raised about building non-perverse organisational cultures.