Detecting exaggeration and malingering in neuropsychological assessment

J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2000 Apr;15(2):829-58. doi: 10.1097/00001199-200004000-00006.

Abstract

Magnification of symptoms or nonoptimal effort on neuropsychological tests, within the context of head injury litigation, can have several independent or related underlying causes. Therefore, detecting exaggeration does not automatically indicate that the individual is malingering. This article reviews the evaluative and differential diagnostic process and provides the clinician with suggestions regarding assessment methods. A forensic evaluation that does not include careful consideration of possible negative response bias should be considered incomplete.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Brain Injuries / psychology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Forensic Psychiatry*
  • Humans
  • Malingering / diagnosis*
  • Malingering / psychology
  • Neuropsychological Tests*