Forensic Psychology: Objectives and Evaluation
Forensic Psychology Objectives
Forensic psychology has three main objectives:
- To provide the judicial process with principles, techniques, and instruments for objective assessment of human behavior, assisting judges in sentencing consistent with expert demands.
- To integrate psychologists and professionals into interdisciplinary teams working with courts and judicial bodies, advising magistrates, judges, prosecutors, etc.
- To establish ethical principles for interventions in the judicial field, ensuring ethical conduct prevails in the profession.
Experts contribute to reports to dispel doubts in legal proceedings, presenting findings to juries and courts using established techniques.
Forensic Psychology Evaluation
The Code of Civil Procedure recognizes experts as judicial auxiliaries due to their scientific, artistic, or practical knowledge.
Psychological Evaluation Activities
- Assessment of witness testimony
- Competence to stand trial
- Eligibility of facts
- Competence to hold custody
- Evaluation of psychological damage
- Assessment of victims
It is crucial to know what, whom, and how to evaluate. Assessments are provided for accused individuals, victims, and witnesses.
Content of Evaluation
The evaluation content varies depending on the individual being assessed. Experts detail the psychological exploration, diagnosis (using ICD-10, DSM-IV, etc.), supporting evidence, and explain how the diagnosis might affect the individual’s actions and understanding at the time of the events.
The primary aim of forensic psychopathology assessment is to provide information to the judge and parties on mental anomalies, disorders, or mental illnesses and their relevance to the legal issue.
Expert Evidence
Expert evidence assists in decision-making regarding the accused’s mental state. Results are presented in written reports or orally during trials.
Functions of the Forensic Expert
Forensic experts aid the court and parties, contributing to the proper application of law and providing a scientific foundation for the legal treatment of the accused.
Particularities of Forensic Evaluation
- No therapeutic purpose
- Expert purpose
- Not typically voluntary, requested by lawyers or judicial authority
- Confidentiality is limited
Expertise Process
- Psychological Interview: Includes psychological symptoms.
- Methodical Exploration: Examination of psychic functions.
- Complementary Tests: Physical and psychological tests if needed.
The accused must be informed about:
- The expert’s identity and purpose
- Purpose, scope, relevance, and use of information
- Lack of therapeutic purpose
- Limits to professional secrecy
Content of Psychobiographical Story
- Initial state
- Current syndrome
- Family history
- Personal history
- Premorbid vital information
- Medical and psychological explorations
- Objective course
- Final summary