Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology

Catalog description

This seminar explores the interplay between psychiatry/psychology and the law in both civil and criminal realms. The differing functions, constitutional and ethical issues for forensic and clinical mental health professionals are analyzed. The forensic expert's qualifications, methodology, and means of communicating with the courts and parties are examined. Competency, criminal responsibility and other psychiatric defenses, and involuntary hospitalization in various contexts are treated. Real-life case studies are probed. We also look to the future of psychiatry and psychology in an ever expanding forensic world. A forensic psychiatrist and a forensic psychologist appear as guest speakers. A paper is required of all students.