Clinical Neuropsychology: Application in Criminal, Civil, and Family Court Matters (From Criminal Court Consultation, P 259-272, 1989, Richard Rosner, Ronnie B Harmon, eds. -- See NCJ-135552)

• NCJ Number: 135568
• Author(s): R Schuster
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 14 pages
• Sale Source: Plenum Press
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

A clinical neuropsychological assessment can often aid forensic psychiatry by clarifying areas of functioning that cannot be effectively evaluated by other means.

Abstract

Neuropsychology is akin to behavioral neurology; both focus on signs, symptoms, and syndromes that indicate neurologic pathology. Its three main methods of examination are the quantitative analysis of deficit measurement through the Halstead Reitan Neuropsychological battery or another instrument, the qualitative assessment of performance, and the analysis of pathognomonic signs. These assessments have been used in family court to uncover areas of deficit that were obscured by standard interview and mental status techniques. In criminal courts, they are useful in helping determine competency to stand trial and in examining ambiguous or unexplainable behaviors. Neuropsychological testing is also used often in civil cases involving post-concussion syndrome. These assessments should be used as one part of an overall forensic evaluation and are particularly helpful in areas in which clinical interviews alone are insufficient to clarify symptoms. 11 references