NCJ Number
114654
Journal
Clinical Neuropsychology Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Dated: (1988) Pages: 113-122
Date Published
1988
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper focuses on the frontal lobe, one region of the central nervous system, to illustrate the link between neuropsychological deficits and criminal behavior.
Abstract
Frontal lobe impairment is relevant in determining criminal responsibility because the frontal lobe mediates between the intellect and emotions through the analysis and synthesis of both types of input. The ability to modulate and control aggressive urges originating in the limbic system is also often the first set of controls to be impaired when exposed to a variety of central nervous system deficits. This paper proposes a seven-step procedure to demonstrate a functional relationship between documented frontal lobe impairment and criminal behavior. The first step is to obtain a multisourced and interdisciplinary forensic data base, followed by an accounting for nondeliberate distortion and deliberate deception. The examiner should review the offender's history of violence in terms of severity, frequency, recency, triggers, opportunity factors, and inhibitions. A frontal lobe syndrome should be established for the time of the crime, and self-control during the instant offense should be analyzed. Another step is to highlight the similarities and behavioral limitations of the accused in terms of specific frontal lobe impairments for the time of the crime vis-a-vis the response sets shown during neuropsychological testing. Finally, the examiner must proffer circumscribed conclusions regarding the link between criminal behavior versus behavior during the examination. 15 references.