NCJ Number
150472
Journal
Journal of the Canadian Society of Forensic Science Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1994) Pages: 81-85
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A literature review and discussion of cocaine psychosis emphasizes distinguishing the normal expected effects of cocaine from the hallmark features of cocaine psychosis.
Abstract
Recently, due to the increased availability and popularity of cocaine, the phenomenon of cocaine-induced psychosis is becoming more common. The psychotic condition is generally defined as a profound disruption of normal mental functioning. One of the most significant effects of cocaine in the commission of crime is the effect of a loss of impulse control. This loss of impulse control combined with decreased inhibitions (social, emotional, and sexual), increased self confidence, increased suspicion, and a physical "set" to act may result in explosive, aggressive, violent behavior. Cocaine psychosis involves a break with reality where an individual's behavior and actions are guided by beliefs or feelings of persecution that are not based in reality. As the effects of cocaine progress along a continuum, it is difficult to determine the point where individuals "cross the line" from the conscious understanding of their actions to a break with reality and potential nonresponsibility. The final assessment of psychosis must be based on the individual's behavior at the time of the incident. 13 references