Abnormal Psychology

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Competency to stand trial
Sane at the time the crimes were committed
Insanity Defense
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A legal term
One of the most controversial applications of the law

Comparison of Public Perceptions of the
Insanity Defense
Persons "not guilty by reason of insanity" set free
Persons "not guilty by reason of insanity" sent to mental hospitals"
Insantiy pleas resulting in
"not guilty by reason of insanity"
Felony indictments for which an insanity plea is made
Reality
Public Perception
0 20 40
Percentage
60 80 100

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Insanity Defense Rules
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M’Naghten Rule
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Did the person know right from wrong?
Irresistible Impulse Rule
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“acts of passion”
Rarely used
Durham Rule
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“product of mental disease”

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Insanity Defense Rules, cont.
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ALI (American Law Institute) Rule
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Requires more than just a mental disorder
APA Definition
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Insanity Defense Reform Act 1984
Have to be proven insane at time of crime committed
Guilty but Mentally Ill

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Also known as civil commitment
Criteria
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Grave disability
Dangerous to self
Dangerous to others

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Competent and appropriate treatment
Not to become too involved
To protect patient confidentiality
To protect others who might be in danger from their clients
Report suspect abuse
To provide ethical service

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Child Custody Disputes
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Decisions must be made in the best interest of the child
Child Maltreatment Cases
Recovered Memory Cases