Violence. Roots and Remedies: The Perspective of the Forensic Psychiatrist

Abstract

The role of the forensic psychiatrist is described in this paper. This role is unique in that it applies the research findings of the neurologist, the neuropsychologist, the criminologist, and other behavioral specialists to courtroom proceedings. The possibility that medical malfunction such as brain damage, endocrinological problems, toxicity, infection, or neurological disorder may be associated with violent behavior is discussed. The forensic psychiatrist has several functions to perform in the courtroom. He or she must be able to assess the likelihood that any type of malfunctioning such as those mentioned may have had a part in the defendant's violent behavior, assess the defendant's state of mind at the time of commission of the crime, and determine whether the individual is competent to stand trial. The five phases of the criminal justice system are reviewed as they bear on the work of the forensic psychiatrist.