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Essay / The Role of Forensic Psychology in Legal Cases
Table of ContentsIntroductionThe Importance of Forensic Psychology: Case ExamplesConclusionReferencesIntroductionThe field of forensic psychology offers a fascinating avenue of study for those who wish delve into the psyche of criminals and assess their mental fitness to stand trial. The American Psychological Association defines forensic psychology as “the application of clinical expertise to the legal field.” During court proceedings, a psychologist is often permitted to conduct interviews with the accused to determine their mental state at the time of the alleged crime. In some jurisdictions, if it is determined that an individual was not of sound mind at the time of the commission of the offense and lacked the capacity to understand the wrongfulness of their actions, the case may be classified as an insanity case and eventually dismissed. Evaluating a defendant's mental health at the time of the crime is generally the responsibility of forensic psychologists. It should be noted that many defense attorneys seek to plead insanity for their clients, even though such pleas are frequently rejected by juries. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayThe Importance of Forensic Psychology: Case ExamplesA notable example from August 2007 is the case of John Couey, who was accused of kidnapping, rape and the murder of Jessica Lunsford. His defense tried to argue that he should be declared legally insane, citing his low IQ and history of mental abuse. However, the jury ultimately opted for the death penalty rather than life imprisonment. Psychologist Harry McClaren was brought in to evaluate Couey and his associates. McClaren's findings revealed that Couey exhibited the ability to function effectively in daily life, despite any mental challenges. McClaren's interviews with Couey and others revealed that Couey had held factory and construction jobs, known for their complex tasks and safety requirements. This evidence suggested that Couey possessed an understanding of good and evil. McClaren concluded: “In my opinion, he was capable of functioning at a higher level than would be expected of a person with mental retardation. » Subsequently, Couey died in prison from cancer. Another notable case is that of Andrea Yates, who was convicted in 2002 of murdering three of her five children. Initially found guilty and legally sane at her first trial, her conviction was overturned due to incorrect testimony provided by Park Dietz, MD. During her subsequent trial, it was revealed that Yates had suffered severe postpartum depression after each delivery, had hallucinations and made suicide attempts. . She had a history of being in and out of psychiatric institutions. In her defense, several psychologists testified that she was not of sound mind during the crimes. American Psychiatric Association Vice President Nada Stotland, MD, expressed her belief that it was heartbreaking that Yates was initially convicted. The jury ultimately returned a verdict of "innocence by reason of insanity", which led to Yates being placed in a mental institution. However, her treatment was cut short when her insurance stopped covering her and she was left alone with her remaining children. In Lisa Montgomery's case, she was convicted of murdering Bobbie Jo Stinnett, who was eight months pregnant at the time. Montgomery tried to convince the court that she suffered from "pseudocyesis", a condition that causes a woman to.