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What does the brain mean in a legal domain, and how does integrating neuroscience and law go beyond the practical difficulties highlighted by social scientists and legal theorists? The debate about the confluence of neuroscience and law is both promising and uncertain. Legal theorists took it as a conceptual error, and neuroscience advocates find it a promising emerging field. The social psychological approach towards law is for critical integration of both. Scholars took an alternative route, considering it a fascinating element of scientific discourse. The present article aims to show that the coming of "brain language" in the everyday legal discourse will not become a reality, as truth is inferred through everyday experiences and the interpretations of scientific knowledge. Scientific knowledge through mapping active brain areas by the available brain visualizing techniques shows the correlation between the brain and behavior, not the causation. So, its use in the legal domain seems less institutionalized, showing the determinism of the brain as less authentic in itself when compared with the intuitive path embedded in culture and history. Implication for sociolegal psychology working for dignity and social justice is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article in the "Juristische Rundschau" from January 1, 2025 deals with the new regulation of placement in a detoxification facility according to § 64 of the Criminal Code. The legislative changes have specified and tightened the requirements for placement, especially regarding the tendency towards substance dependence. The case law of the Federal Court of Justice shows how the new legal requirements are being implemented and what effects can be expected on practice. It is explained how the criminal senates of the Federal Court of Justice consistently apply the new guidelines and how the reform could contribute to reducing the overcrowding in forensic psychiatry in the long term. [Extracted from the article]

In this paper, a claim for transdisciplinary in economics is put forward, pleading for a change of paradigm in economics and the introduction of a new area of study, physiconomics. William Stanley Jevons is presented as a forerunner of this transdisciplinary view. He introduced an emphasis on the importance of the relationship between economics and other social sciences. However, the article is not a historical re-evaluation but an intellectual discussion encouraging the emancipation of economics from engineering in favour of physics, sociology, law and psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current field survey describes the identities, training, practices, and careers of 351 U.S. forensic psychologists. Findings are presented for clinical forensic psychologists (n = 323) with additional consideration for those working in institutions (n = 119), private practice (n = 107), or both (n = 90), and separately for non-clinical forensic psychologists (n = 35). The sample was predominantly middle-aged, White, and female. Participants reported various training paths to the field, and professional settings and activities in the field. Student loan debt was common and significant in clinical Forensic psychologists. Income was generally high, with trends in higher incomes for private practice, board certification, urban areas, and certain geographic regions. Gendered income disparities were common, particularly among those later in their careers and in private practice, with relative parity only observed among early-career clinical forensic psychologists in institutions. Career satisfaction was generally high, with some important barriers noted. Overall, the limited representation of those with historically marginalized cultural identities restricted further consideration and understanding of these important factors in the field. Additional data and discussion are provided for these and other areas of demographics and lived experiences, training and related financial considerations, professional practices (including settings, activities, and clinical test use), and career considerations (including income, benefits, retirement planning, and satisfaction). Together, these data and related discussions offer important insights for prospective and current trainees entering the field, professionals seeking to navigate and advance their careers, and field leaders aiming to contribute to the ongoing development of forensic psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the potential for political bias in forensic mental evaluations and publications, particularly when interpreting social media. It highlights the importance of addressing bias in peer-reviewed publications in forensic psychology and psychiatry, as well as the need to control political biases in scholarly work. The text also explores the risk of political bias in forensic practice and the impact of herding bias on perceptions and decisions in the field. The authors emphasize the necessity of addressing political bias in forensic work, especially with the increasing influence of Artificial Intelligence on forensic interpretation of social media. [Extracted from the article]

Immigration interviews with asylum-seeking youth have been largely understudied. In domestic legal settings, children interviewed about abuse and maltreatment provide more detailed, relevant responses when asked open-ended questions and when interviewed in a neutral environment, among other supportive practices. In asylum settings, guidance for interviews with youth derives from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is not clear to what extent best practices are employed during asylum interviews with youth. This scoping review was performed to (a) provide an overview of empirical literature on interviews with children in immigration settings, including border screenings, interviews with representatives, and asylum hearings, (b) explore whether best practices derived from forensic psychology and children's rights are observed in asylum interviews, (c) identify unique interview needs of asylum-seeking youth, and (d) derive implications for research and practice. A scoping review of three databases conducted in October 2023 yielded titles, of which 29 articles met inclusion criteria. These comprised quantitative and qualitative studies in English from 2003 to 2023. Three articles identified were quantitative, and 26 were qualitative. While several articles touched on interview practices and youth's experiences of interviews, only a few examined how asylum-seeking youth responded to different interview factors such as question type and interview setting. Key findings highlight inconsistent application of best practice principles, and several areas where best practices to support asylum-seeking children require clarification through further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most controversial concepts among criminal law scholars is the actio libera in causa (alic), which refers to the possibility of establishing criminal culpability even if, at the time of the crime, the person was in a state of impaired culpability due to intoxication or mental disorder caused by their own responsible actions. However, the literature on the legal distribution of responsibility and punishment in such cases is sparse. This study uses a mixed factorial experimental design to test the concept of alic, with the primary objective of analyzing whether responsibility is assigned differently depending on whether the person intentionally or negligently placed themselves in a state of impaired culpability. Additionally, it examines whether the moral character of the individual who intentionally induces this state to commit a crime influences the perception of responsibility. The results show that while the sample does not consider the motives or moral character that led the individual to intentional intoxication, it does when the prior intoxication is negligent. Furthermore, the deservedness of punishment is perceived as highest in cases of intentional homicide, followed by negligent homicide, and lowest in cases with no homicide. These findings contribute to the ongoing debate regarding the intuitive nature of the alic attribution rule and the perceived fairness of punishment across different types of alic cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Evaluating Forensic Science: Insights from Schauer's The Proof" discusses Frederick Schauer's examination of evidence in law, politics, and science, focusing on forensic science. It highlights the complexities and biases that can affect the evaluation and application of evidence, particularly in forensic science. The text explores issues such as the evaluation of evidence, cognitive biases, presentation of forensic evidence in court, the need for judicial gatekeepers, and the function of unreliable forensic techniques. It emphasizes the importance of evaluating the validity of forensic fields and their use in specific cases to ensure reliable court decisions based on evidence. [Extracted from the article]

This systematic review aims to report on the use of Statement Validity Analysis (SVA) with minors involved in criminal justice proceedings. We conducted a literature search of six bibliographic databases up to March 2024. Additional searches were performed using citation tracing strategies. Nineteen studies published between 1991 and 2023 were retained. Most were published between 1991 and 2000, mainly in the USA. A scientific gap was observed for 10 years before studies resumed between 2011 and 2022. These 19 studies involved 2931 children; most were girls (n = 2080; 71%). The mean age was 9.4 years (SD = 2.40; min = 2; max = 17.5). Most studies did not mention the nature of the relationship between the child and the alleged perpetrator of sexual violence, three studies involved intra‐family violence and six studies involved victims of intra‐ and extra‐family violence. Nearly 75% of the interviewers were trained with SVA methods. Most were mental health professionals (52.6%) or police officers (15.8%). No study used the SVA as a whole, 10 studies used 19 criteria of the Criteria‐Based Content Analysis (CBCA), and no study used the Validity Check List (VCL). Most studies performed SVA on interview transcripts (n = 8), and two studies performed their analysis on both verbatims and video. The conclusion of our literature review highlights the methodological weaknesses of these studies and encourages more research about the use of SVA in the judicial field to reduce the risk of misleading the judiciary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about men who sexually abuse multiple children and evade detection for long periods. This group is responsible for inflicting significant harm due to the severity, and longevity of their offending. The aim of the study was to identify men who perpetrate persistent sexual offences against children and differentiate them by those with long detection lags (LDLs) (n = 35) and short detection lags (SDLs) (n = 35) using police databases and case files. The men were compared on demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, victimisation, psychopathic traits, antisocial orientation, atypical sexual interest, and descriptive sexual offence variables. The LDL participants had more psychopathic traits, more pre-pubescent child victims, more often be in professional employment and have less antisocial and criminogenic indicators than the comparative SDL group. These findings have significant practical implications for reduced victimisation through early identification, forensic risk assessment, treatment and earlier prevention strategies for CSA. Practice impact statement: The current findings have important and practical implications within forensic risk assessment, especially Structured Professional Judgement (SPJ) when assessing specific groups of offenders. In addition, research informed SPJ can better prioritise policing investigative resources, both retrospectively (e.g. identifying victims) and prospectively (e.g. reducing detection lags and victimisation) while defensively informing the criminal justice system of the most appropriate supervision intensity and intervention modalities for men with clinical and forensic indicators of potential high victimisation and longer detection lags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been increased scientific and clinical interest in the potential harms associated with ultra-processed foods, including poor mental health, aggression, and antisocial behavior. Research spanning epidemiology, mechanistic pre-clinical work, addiction science, microbiome and exposome science, and human intervention trials has underscored that nutrition is of relevance along the criminal justice continuum. As such, the emerging dietetics research is salient to the thousands of international psychologists and allied mental health professionals that are engaged in justice work, including forensics, prevention, and intervention. In addition, relationships between nutrition and behavior relate to “food crime”, an emergent area unifying criminal justice researchers with psychology, public health, and other interdisciplinary sectors. Food crime scrutinizes the vast harms, including non-communicable diseases and adverse behavioral outcomes, as influenced by the distribution of addictive ultra-processed food products. Here, we examine the emergent research, including biophysiological mechanisms, and evidence indicating that dietary patterns/components intersect with psychosocial vulnerabilities linked with risks of antisocial behavior and justice involvement. Viewed through a prevention lens, the study of nutrition and aggressive behavior should be prioritized, especially if the outcomes emerge as externalities of the global consumption of ultra-processed food. In the context of criminal justice and behavior, there is a need for forensic examination of how industry influence and power structures can undermine matters of food justice.

AbstractHistorically, forensic evaluators have relied heavily upon various editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders when rendering psycholegal opinions. The field of mental health is increasing moving toward dimensional models of personality and psychopathology in lieu of traditional DSM categorical models, though the domains of forensic psychology and psychiatry have been slow to make this transition. The current study therefore sought to examine forensic evaluators’ familiarity with dimensional approaches to personality and psychopathology, namely the Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders (AMPD) and the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP). Forensic psychologists and psychiatrists (N = 54) completed an online survey designed to assess their familiarity with these models, as well as to determine if forensics practitioners are using these models in clinical practice. Participants endorsed greater familiarity with the AMPD, with a large majority of participants indicating they were unfamiliar with the HiTOP model. Few participants endorsed using these models in their clinical forensic practice. Implications for making the transition to dimensional models within forensic evaluation are discussed, as are paths forward for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incorporating modern technology to combat crime can enhance law enforcement capabilities. Therefore, the study explored the application of Virtual Reality (VR) in investigative procedures. First, it examined the use of VR in improving strength of remembrance which was assessed by BEOS. Second, it explored effectiveness of virtual reality eye-tracking for repeated versus novel stimuli. Sixty participants were divided into three groups to either perform a mock crime, or view it in VR, or both. Results indicate the potential effectiveness of VR in collaboration with BEOS, by confirming that VR significantly bolstered strength of remembrance and revealed distinct eye movement patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been an association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attachment style and resilience with later life psychological distress, yet this area remains under-researched among forensic mental health populations. The current study aimed to explore predictive relationships between ACEs, attachment and resilience and later-life psychological distress and trauma in a sample with a history of forensic mental health service use. A total of 128 participants completed six questionnaires relating to these factors: The Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ); the Vulnerable Attachment Scale Questionnaire (VASQ); the Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM); the Resilience Research Centre Adult Resilience Measure (RRC-ARM); the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-10 (CORE-10); and the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ). ACEs were found to be highly prevalent and significant correlations were found between lower levels of adult resilience and insecure attachment, and increased psychological distress and trauma symptoms. Attachment style was found to mediate some of these relationships. The findings support a model in which higher ACEs may lead to insecure attachment style and low resilience in the forensic mental health population, thereby resulting in higher levels of later life psychological distress and trauma. Attachment and resilience may be important factors to consider for preventative and reactive interventions within forensic mental health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many jurisdictions, most convictions result from guilty pleas. This reality means that most convictions in these jurisdictions are reached not as the result of the decision-making of judges or juries but as the result of the decision-making of prosecutors (who often have discretion to offer incentives that can encourage defendants to plead guilty) and defendants (who must decide whether to plead guilty). These decisions can be psychologically complex and driven by a range of tactical and normative considerations. This article provides an overview of what we know about how prosecutors and defendants make decisions relating to guilty pleas, examines how modern psychological theory can help us understand these decisions better, and discusses directions for future research in this area. This future research will be important in more effectively evaluating the extent to which convictions obtained via guilty plea are consistent with normative legal goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Supervision and the supervisory role are essential aspects of clinical training and represent a distinct area of competency within clinical psychology. While guidance documents exist for clinical supervision, there is limited guidance regarding forensic assessment supervision, despite the recognition of forensic psychology as a specialty warranting its own set of unique principles and specialty-specific competencies. Although there is substantial overlap between clinical and forensic assessment supervision, significant differences also exist which can have a great impact on the nature of forensic assessment supervision. This article uses established principles, training, and practice considerations within the field of forensic psychology to highlight the core distinctions between clinical and forensic assessment supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advice provided by forensic psychology professionals to judges and courts on matters related to fundamental rights and freedoms or public security requires enormous professional specialization. Paradoxically, in Spain forensic psychology is not officially recognized despite the fact that as a scientific discipline it has developed exponentially in recent decades. This article presents up to ten arguments to support the urgent creation of the specialty of Forensic Psychology. The specific Spanish legal framework that regulates the skills necessary to carry out assessments in the field of mental health, along with the important legal repercussions associated with mental disorders, requires that this specialty include health skills for forensic psychology professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Miller Forensic Assessment of Symptoms Test (M-FAST) is a screening instrument for detecting potential feigning. Many non-simulation designs examining the M-FAST total score relied upon the Structured Interview of Reported Symptoms (SIRS) to establish feigning groups. The goal of the present study was to examine the operating characteristics of the M-FAST total score using a method with observed predictive capacities other than the SIRS to create study groups. The participants in this study consisted of examinees who were evaluated for inclusion in a post-arrest diversion program. The Negative Impression Management (NIM) scale from the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) was used to identify possible feigners and genuine respondents. A total of 53 examinees were included in the analyses. The M-FAST total score was found to have an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.87 in identifying the study groups. A range of M-FAST total score cut-offs had adequate operating characteristics. These results provide additional support for the validity of the M-FAST total score. However, this study is not without limitations (e.g., small sample size), and therefore, additional research is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of the mental illness of serial killers is a subject of intense debate. There are two major perspectives on this phenomenon: one which argues that these criminals are normal individuals who consciously choose to commit crimes, and the other that they suffer from severe mental disorders that affect their ability to choose freely. The psychopathology of serial killers involves the study of the psychological and psychopathological traits of these individuals. The origins of their psychopathology may be linked to genetic factors, childhood trauma, and neurobiological and environmental influences. Biological factors, early trauma and socio-cultural dynamics may contribute to the development of the psychopathology of these offenders. There are various mental and organic disorders that may play a role in the criminal behavior of serial killers. For example, schizophrenia can lead to hallucinations and delusions, and paranoia can generate intense feelings of distrust and suspicion. In cases where these disorders are present, they may help explain the motives and violent behavior of a serial killer. Psychotropic substances, such as alcohol and drugs, can influence criminal behavior because they can reduce inhibitions and increase aggression. Some serial killers may use substances to facilitate or justify their violent acts. Paraphilias, such as sexual sadism, necrophilia, and voyeurism, are common among serial killers and can provide insight into their dysfunctional motives and heinous behavior. These deviant sexual preferences may play an important role in how these offenders choose their victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legal psychologists' assessments can have a major impact on the fact finder's evaluation of evidence and, consequently, perceptions of guilt. Yet, in the few studies about legal psychologists' assessments and reports, great variability was found. As is the case with other forensic expert domains, legal psychologists are prone to cognitive biases, such as being adversely affected by irrelevant contextual information, confirmation bias, and allegiance bias. Based on the scientific literature, we propose several ways in which legal psychologists can minimize cognitive biases in their assessments, most notably the alternative scenario method. Furthermore, we propose guidelines for expert witnesses in the legal psychological domain, designed to make reports as scientifically grounded, applicable, readable, transparent, and bias-free as possible. We hope that the guidelines will enhance the quality of expert witness testimony provided by legal psychologists around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International studies have linked the consumption of ultra-processed foods with a variety of non-communicable diseases. Included in this growing body of research is evidence linking ultra-processed foods to mental disorders, aggression, and antisocial behavior. Although the idea that dietary patterns and various nutrients or additives can influence brain and behavior has a long history in criminology, in the absence of plausible mechanisms and convincing intervention trials, the topic was mostly excluded from mainstream discourse. The emergence of research across nutritional neuroscience and nutritional psychology/psychiatry, combined with mechanistic bench science, and human intervention trials, has provided support to epidemiological findings, and legitimacy to the concept of nutritional criminology. Among the emergent research, microbiome sciences have illuminated mechanistic pathways linking various socioeconomic and environmental factors, including the consumption of ultra-processed foods, with aggression and antisocial behavior. Here in this review, we examine this burgeoning research, including that related to ultra-processed food addiction, and explore its relevance across the criminal justice spectrum—from prevention to intervention—and in courtroom considerations of diminished capacity. We use auto-brewery syndrome as an example of intersecting diet and gut microbiome science that has been used to refute mens rea in criminal charges. The legalome—microbiome and omics science applied in forensic and legal psychology—appears set to emerge as an important consideration in matters of criminology, law, and justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Political doctrine has arguably coloured public perceptions of prison, as a lone deterrent, in reducing crime rates. Literature pertaining to public attitudes of criminality reports harsher punitive views towards individuals who have committed criminal offences in the UK, but this has yet to be assessed by education level. In two independently sampled studies, we explored how degree-level classifications more broadly impact the punitive or rehabilitative leaning of an individual (Study One, N = 180), and whether associations were replicated for forensic psychology education more specifically, internationally (Study Two, N = 183). Whilst merely having a degree did not significantly impact punitive judgments, undertaking a forensic psychology degree specifically, relative to criminology or psychology degrees more broadly, resulted in more positive and less punitive attitudes. There is a clear need for transparency of the Criminal Justice System in the provision of better education, allowing members of the public to make better informed decisions of their punitive judgments of individuals who have committed serious criminal offences. Furthermore, a better understanding of perceptions of these individuals and implications they may have on their treatment; the derivation of such opinions implicating governmental policies regarding rehabilitative care in cases of serious crime. Individual implications for the Slovak educational system and the overall importance of forensic psychology as an independent course.

Proof in cases of sexual abuse requires a report from forensic psychological examination. It is deemed necessary because the act of abuse does not leave physical traces and its impact is more psychological on the victim. Moreover, when the perpetrator is someone close to the victim, it adds to the level of trauma experienced by the victim. This research employs empirical methods, including interviews with Public Prosecutors in the field of General Crime at the Public Prosecutor's Office of Batu, observation, and analysis of legal documents. This study elucidates that in positive Indonesian law, forensic psychological reports can serve as valid evidence, both as documentary evidence and expert testimony, and can also serve as guidance if the defendant denies the accusations. Furthermore, it explains the relevance of the Judge to this report, evident when the Judge receives and considers its findings, supported by at least one other piece of evidence and the Judge's conviction of the defendant's guilt before imposing criminal sanctions.

The current field survey describes the identities, training, practices, and careers of 351 U.S. forensic psychologists. Findings are presented for clinical forensic psychologists (n = 323) with additional consideration for those working in institutions (n = 119), private practice (n = 107), or both (n = 90), and separately for non-clinical forensic psychologists (n = 35). The sample was predominantly middle-aged, White, and female. Participants reported various training paths to the field, and professional settings and activities in the field. Student loan debt was common and significant in clinical Forensic psychologists. Income was generally high, with trends in higher incomes for private practice, board certification, urban areas, and certain geographic regions. Gendered income disparities were common, particularly among those later in their careers and in private practice, with relative parity only observed among early-career clinical forensic psychologists in institutions. Career satisfaction was generally high, with some important barriers noted. Overall, the limited representation of those with historically marginalized cultural identities restricted further consideration and understanding of these important factors in the field. Additional data and discussion are provided for these and other areas of demographics and lived experiences, training and related financial considerations, professional practices (including settings, activities, and clinical test use), and career considerations (including income, benefits, retirement planning, and satisfaction). Together, these data and related discussions offer important insights for prospective and current trainees entering the field, professionals seeking to navigate and advance their careers, and field leaders aiming to contribute to the ongoing development of forensic psychology.

The article advocates for the investigation of gambling-related suicide cases in the United Kingdom (UK). It cites the potential impact of gambling-related suicides in England on people and stresses the need to understand the contextual factors that elevate suicide risk for gambling. It refers to psychological autopsy as a way to understand the socio-ecological nature of suicide and it calls for government support to carry out this method as part of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy.

Abstract Previous research has suggested that the core features of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may contribute to offending behaviours and increased vulnerability within the Criminal Justice System. To date, there is a paucity of evidence assessing the effectiveness of interventions for offending behaviour in adults with ASD but without co-occurring intellectual disability (ID) across a broad range of forensic settings. The lack of robust evidence is concerning, as limited effectiveness may contribute to an increased likelihood of prolonged incarceration, particularly in the most restrictive settings. A PRISMA systematic review was conducted with a narrative synthesis to: (a) evaluate the evidence of the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing recidivism, (b) assess whether the core features of ASD impact the effectiveness of these interventions, and (c) identify additional factors that may affect the effectiveness of interventions within this population. Seven studies involving ten male participants were identified. The findings suggest that interventions for offending behaviours in adults with ASD without intellectual disability (ID) are largely inadequate, and that core ASD features need to be considered. Additionally, a complex interplay of risk factors potentially impacting intervention effectiveness was suggested. Limitations include heterogeneity across intervention types, measures of effectiveness, and what constitutes effectiveness. Despite the limited number of studies and data quality, the review aligns with a growing body of literature highlighting vulnerability and a need for evidence-based interventions for people with ASD. The review also discusses the broader implications of ineffective interventions.

PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTNegative emotionality has been consistently linked to an increased risk of sexual offending. Ninety-one Dutch males treated in outpatient forensic psychiatry for sexually transgressive behaviour were studied on self-reported negative emotionality, coping and sexual coping, and therapist assessed corresponding dynamic risk factors. Outpatients reported more prevalence of high negative emotionality than therapists. Correlation analyses showed, amongst others, a significant positive association between emotional coping and all subscales of negative emotionality: stress (strong), aggression (weak) and alienation (weak). Furthermore, regression analyses revealed that self-reported stress was a significant predictor of several types of self-reported coping (task, emotional, avoidant, and sexual consent and molest) and assessed sexual coping. Additionally, self-reported aggression predicted consent and rape-themed sexual coping. These results indicate a nuanced relationship between different aspects of negative emotionality and coping mechanisms, underscoring the relevance of careful consideration tailored to characteristics of the patient involved when addressed in forensic treatment.The observed associations between (aspects of) negative emotionality and coping, promote the use of patient-tailored emotion regulation interventions in the forensic treatment of outpatients with sexually transgressive behaviour. Moreover, self-report appears to provide useful additional information for further tailoring therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objective: The area of malingering has advanced in recent years in Spain. However, a boost is still needed to reach and harness international resources and standards. It is of great importance to have guidelines and reviews that can incorporate and adapt recent evidence to the Spanish context. Our aim is to review the literature on malingering and related concepts, in the Spanish forensic-psychological context. In addition, an updated working guide for professionals in the context will be offered. Method: A bibliographic review of the national and international literature was carried out. Results: A series of limitations in terminology have been identified, for which we propose several suggestions that are coherent with the international literature. Similarly, we propose a complete evaluation system, from hypothesis formulation to components and conclusions, oriented towards forensic professional practice. Conclusions: The current state of Spanish literature in this area shows shortcomings that make it difficult to reach the standards of good practice. It is important to promote the adaptation of new tests and the development of research with those that have already been adapted, in new contexts and populations of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dr. Gerald P. Koocher is a highly respected figure in the field of clinical child psychology. He has made significant contributions to the field through his research on children's perceptions of death and dying, his work in professional and academic ethics, his expertise in forensic psychology, and his creation of the Psychologists' Desk Reference. Dr. Koocher has held numerous leadership positions and has been recognized with many awards and honors for his contributions. He is a strong advocate for child-related issues and has called for more accessible options for doctoral-level education and training. Dr. Koocher believes that the field must address the complex causes of stress and distress among children and adolescents, including issues such as child maltreatment, poverty, social media, internet bullying, school shootings, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He advises aspiring professionals to remain focused on their education and licensure, and to be open to diverse career opportunities. Dr. Koocher has played a significant role in shaping the field of clinical child psychology and continues to be actively involved in various professional roles. [Extracted from the article]

This study experimentally tested jurors' claims that their expert credibility perceptions are independently influenced by expert training and experience, with the latter exerting greater influence. To our knowledge, only the combined impact of these variables had been previously examined. Mock jurors (N = 553) read a trial summary containing testimony from a forensic expert with high or low training and with high or low experience. They then rendered verdicts and rated the expert's credibility. Results mainly showed that expert training and experience independently influenced expert credibility, although the latter exerted only a slightly greater impact. Practical implications and future directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The absence of a logical formal representation of the overlapping signs of child abuse (CA) is a knowledge gap that affects identification, evaluation, and intervention processes in different fields of knowledge, especially forensic and clinical. This study aimed to analyze through a literature review to what extent the signs and symptoms of the different types of CA present co-occurrence and overlap (intersection) between them; what is exposed as an input to propose a logical formal representation. To do this, a quick literature review of the scientific production published on the co-occurrence of signs in the different modalities of child abuse is carried out. Twenty-six articles published from 2017 to October 2022 were systematized. The results show the challenges that professionals have in the evaluation processes and the establishment of the causal link, given that sharing the signs between different types of CA could generate false positives and false negatives; therefore, caution must be exercised when establishing relationships between psychological and behavioral manifestations and MI hypotheses. Finally, a logical formal representation of the superposition of signs is proposed and with it, empirical evidence to the frame of reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology‐facilitated sexual abuse refers to the use of information and communication technologies to facilitate both virtual and in‐person sexual crimes. Research on this topic has focused on rates, risk factors, and consequences. This scoping review aims to understand whether and how forensic psychological procedures are adapted to assess adolescent victims and how Internet‐based information might be useful as complementary data. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extensions for Scoping Reviews guidelines, searches were conducted in April 2023 in five electronic databases to include Portuguese, Spanish, or English quantitative, qualitative, or mixed‐method peer‐reviewed studies. Of the 2523 studies, six were considered eligible. Identified procedures include forensic interviews following the National Institute for Child Health and Human Development Protocol, and risk and trauma assessments. While discussing technology's role in abuse during interviews was informative, confronting adolescents with evidence of their abuse had adverse effects on their testimony and recovery. The assessment tools often had a narrow focus or overlooked the abuse unless explicitly disclosed, implied a referral, or when safeguarding concerns were raised. Clinical, forensic, and criminal implications are elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic mental health professionals are frequently exposed to inpatient aggression, which may negatively affect their physical and mental health. Current studies offer limited insight into how this may affect staff-patient interactions in the aftermath of aggression. A qualitative study was conducted to explore professionals' experiences with exposure to aggression. Thirteen semi-structured interviews and three focus groups were conducted with 25 professionals working in a high secure forensic mental health unit. A thematic analysis was conducted in consensus among three researchers. Five main themes were generated in the analysis: exposure to different forms of aggression, factors that shape the impact of aggression, emotional reactions, managing emotional reactions, and managing relationships with patients. These themes form a complex interplay. Feelings of anger and fear, intrusive memories, and avoidant or agitated behavior toward patients are frequently reported, affecting both the personal and professional lives of participants. Interpersonal relationships between team members can promote or hinder adequate management of feelings that arise after exposure to aggressive incidents. The tremendous impact that exposure to inpatient aggression may have on professionals, and the way that they care for their patients requires more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual orientation and gender minority (LGBTQ+) youth and families have been under a social and legislative attack in the United States in recent years, marked by a stark increase in gender‐affirming care bans and religious rights cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. LGBTQ+ graduate students in mental health fields—particularly those who seek to work in family court settings—have specific needs that are often unmet in their educational and clinical training environments. Furthermore, the over‐representation of LGBTQ+ youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems necessitates specialized knowledge and skills that many clinicians and educators are currently lacking. This paper discusses the unique challenges facing LGBTQ+ graduate students and provides research‐based suggestions for professors, administrators, and supervising clinicians who seek to provide a holistic and humanizing educational experience that produces clinicians who can respond to the evolving needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in family court settings and beyond. Key points for the family court community: LGBTQ+ individuals experience unique stressors stemming from identity‐related stigma, prejudice, and discrimination, which can negatively affect their health and success in educational and work settings.Familiarity with this minority stress may motivate LGBTQ+ individuals to pursue careers in mental health, particularly in family court settings.LGBTQ+ graduate students often lack professors and clinical supervisors who are knowledgeable about working with LGBTQ+ individuals, leading to inadequate training and experiences that negatively impact their functioning across domains.Research highlights the need for more culturally responsive and affirming classroom and field training environments to support LGBTQ+ graduate mental health students who seek to make a difference in the legal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The book "Introduction to Forensic Psychology and Psycho-Legal Work" edited by Gertie (HG) Pretorius provides a comprehensive guide for professionals and students in the field of psycho-legal work in South Africa. The book covers various topics including the integration of psycho-legal knowledge into professional psychology training, the role of psychologists in the court system, and the importance of expert psychological knowledge in legal contexts. It also offers practical guidance on conducting psycho-legal assessments, ethical considerations, and report writing. The book is structured into three parts, covering different aspects of psycho-legal work, and emphasizes the need for evidence-based decision-making and accountability. While the book could benefit from more guidance on the role of psychologists as fact witnesses, it is a valuable resource for those working or interested in the field of forensic psychology and psycho-legal work in South Africa. [Extracted from the article]

Therapy for personality disorder can be understood as a process of enhancing attachment security. This study tests the theory that individuals in a secure forensic mental health setting with a diagnosis of personality disorder who have undertaken psychological therapy will report secure patterns of attachment in their relationship with their therapist. It uses a novel pattern matching approach that assesses the behavioural, cognitive and affective markers of attachment security in a group of patients undergoing therapy. Eight behavioural, cognitive and affective characteristics of secure attachment were identified. Ten patients completed a semi-structured interview about their experiences in therapy and key relationships, and their responses were reviewed for evidence of these eight characteristics. Nine out of ten participants were judged to have demonstrated a pattern of six or more of the eight characteristics of secure attachment. This study supports the theory that treatment for this group of patients works by developing patient-therapist attachments. A focus on attachment issues should, therefore, be a core aspect of therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due process of law involves matters of fundamental fairness to litigants in civil and criminal proceedings. Due process rights include the opportunity to develop, obtain, inspect, present, and challenge evidence in legal proceedings. Psychologists' opinions often depend upon information that is sensitive and should not be publicly disclosed in a manner that would undercut the utility of psychological tests. There have been strident discussion and policy statements opposing nonpsychologists' access to sensitive test information by providing them with copies of test materials or by video recording examinations that include psychological tests. Notably absent from these statements has been any discussion of the legal system's demand for due process and its corresponding requirement for access to facts and data, including opinion testimony of experts. We argue that the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct and the Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology are congruent with due process requirements for reasonable judicial scrutiny and adequate discovery by all parties, and we believe that a judge's protective order is an acceptable remedy for the disclosure of sensitive test information in a litigated matter. Public Significance Statement: Our article argues that when psychology operates within the legal system, it is important for psychologists to recognize that the manner in which they attempt to resolve the ethical problems of their own profession can impact the constitutional rights of civil litigants and criminal defendants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with learning disabilities following a long‐term stay in forensic settings may experience difficulties reintegrating in the wider community. Indirect interventions can be helpful for care providers and family members to reflect on their practices and improve the quality of life of people with learning disabilities. Although indirect interventions are being implemented in learning disability settings, research is limited. Methods: This clinical case study recounts an indirect intervention with care providers of a male with mild learning disability. Findings: We recount the referral and assessment processes, the initial hypotheses and formulation of the service users' presenting difficulties. We demonstrate how a systemically informed indirect intervention with staff can be used to improve the living conditions of a man with mild learning disability and provide reflections on working with multiple interdependent systems surrounding vulnerable individuals in a specialist learning disability setting. Conclusion: Indirect interventions with the care networks supporting an individual with a learning disability can be a useful way to conceptualise the barriers and facilitators for community integration. Indirect interventions can also offer a reflective space for staff to share their own difficulties and prevent burnout. Accessible summary: This case study explores working with staff supporting a man with mild learning disability in the community.This case study helped staff better understand the difficulties a man with mild learning disability experiences and the ways he can be supported to navigate integrating the community following long‐term stay in forensic settings.We discuss how helpful it may be to work with people around individuals with learning disabilities, such as care providers, to improve someone's quality of life.This case study also provides reflections about working with multiple systems and professionals in learning disability settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers in cognitive and forensic psychology have long been interested in the impact of individual differences on eyewitness memory. The sex of the eyewitness is one such factor, with a body of research spanning over 50 years that has sought to determine if and how eyewitness memory differs between males and females. This research has significant implications across the criminal justice system, particularly in the context of gendered issues such as sexual assault. However, the findings have been inconsistent, and there is still a lack of consensus across the literature. A scoping review and analysis of the literature was performed to examine the available evidence regarding whether sex differences in eyewitness memory exist, what explanations have been proposed for any differences found, and how this research has been conducted. Through a strategic search of seven databases, 22 relevant articles were found and reviewed. Results demonstrated that despite the mixed nature of the methodologies and findings, the research suggests that neither males nor females have superior performance in the total amount of accurate information reported, but rather that females may have better memory for person-related details while males may perform better for details related to the surrounding environment. There was also consistent evidence for the own-gender bias. There was some consensus that differences in selective attention between males and females may underlie these sex differences in eyewitness memory. However, none of the studies directly tested this suggested attentional factor, and thus future research is needed to investigate this using a more systematic and empirical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Nurses' observation of patients in seclusion is essential to ensure patient safety.Patient observation in seclusion assists nurses in adhering to the requirements of mental health legislation and hospital policy.Direct observation and video monitoring are widely used in observing patients in seclusion.Coercive practices may cause distress to patient‐staff relations. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: We add detailed information on specific observation methods in seclusion and compare them from the perspective of patients.Nurses communicating with patients ensures relational contact and that quality care is provided to patients even in the most distressed phase of their illness.Providing prior information to patients on observation methods in seclusion and the need for engaging patients in meaningful activities, while in seclusion are emphasized.Observation via camera and nurses' presence near the seclusion room made patients feel safe and gave a sense of being cared for in seclusion.Pixellating the video camera would give a sense of privacy and dignity. What are the implications for practice?: The overarching goal is to prevent seclusion. However, when seclusion is used as a last resort to manage risk to others, it should be done in ways that recognize the human rights of the patient, in ways that are least harmful, and in ways that recognize and cater to patients' unique needs.A consistent approach to relational contact and communication is essential. A care plan must include patient's preferred approach for interacting while in seclusion to support individualized care provision.Viewing panels (small window on the seclusion door) are important in establishing two‐way communication with the patient. Educating nurses to utilize them correctly helps stimulate relational contact and communication during seclusion to benefit patients.Engaging patients in meaningful activities when in seclusion is essential to keep them connected to the outside world. Depending on the patient's presentation in the seclusion room and their preferences for interactions, reading newspapers, poems, stories, or a book chapter aloud to patients, via the viewing panel could help ensure such connectedness.More focus should be placed on providing communication training to nurses to strengthen their communication skills in caring for individuals in challenging care situations.Patient education is paramount. Providing prior information to patients using a co‐produced information leaflet might reduce their anxiety and make them feel safe in the room.When using cameras in the seclusion room, these should be pixelated to maintain patients' privacy. Introduction: A lack of research investigating the specific role that various observational techniques may have in shaping the therapeutic relations in mental health care during seclusion warranted this study. Aim: The aim of the study was to explore patients' experience of different methods of observation used while the patient was in seclusion. Method: A retrospective phenomenological approach, using semi‐structured interviews, ten patients' experiences of being observed in the seclusion room was investigated. Colaizzi's descriptive phenomenological method was followed to analyse the data. Results: Communicating and engaging patients in meaningful activities can be achieved via the viewing panel. The camera was considered essential in monitoring behaviour and promoting a sense of safety. Pixelating the camera may transform patient view on privacy in seclusion. Discussion: The mental health services must strive to prevent seclusion and every effort should be made to recognise the human rights of the patient. The study reveals numerous advantages when nurses actively engage in patient communication during the process of observation. Implications for Practice: Different observation methods yield different benefits; therefore, staff education in using these methods is paramount. Empowering the patient with prior information on seclusion, engaging them in meaningful activities and proper documentation on patient engagement, supports the provision of individualised care in seclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the scientific problems of the theory and practice of public administration of forensic expert activity, related to ensuring the principle of gender equality in forensic activity and delineating the area of scientific research in this field of knowledge. At present there is a lack of comprehensive studies of the mechanism for ensuring the principle of gender equality in the field of forensic expert activity, which renders this research topical. The present paper aims to study the mechanism of ensuring the principle of gender equality in the field of forensic expert activity. To achieve this aim, the author used a range of scientific research methods: comparative analysis, generalization, formal-legal, systemic and structural, semantic analysis, dialectical, and legal forecasting. They were used to analyse legislation, scientific sources and formulate the author's conclusions and proposals. The article proposes a definition of the concept of the 'mechanism for ensuring the principle of gender equality in the field of forensic expert activity', as well as directions for making effective management decisions and conducting a reasonable gender policy in the field of forensic science. It is imperative to implement document management in the field of forensic science with due regard for the principles of non-discrimination of speech/language by implementing strategies of feminisation, neutralisation, avoidance of androcentrism and sexism. The author emphasises the need to ensure the use of gender-sensitive, non-discriminatory speech and feminine forms, which are permissible under the modern standards of the Ukrainian language, along with masculine equivalents in order to refer to persons of different genders. Attention is drawn to the expediency of introducing gender audits of specialised state forensic institutions, their territorial branches, expert institutions of communal ownership, as well as forensic experts who are not employees of these institutions, and developing methodological recommendations as to their conduct at certain intervals. The article summarises that the gender dimension should become an integral component of the process of developing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating policies and activities in the field of forensic science so that women and men receive equal benefits and their rights to equality and nondiscrimination be protected. On this basis, the conclusion is made that it is necessary to develop a gender equality strategy in the field of forensic science, which will define the goals, priorities, expected gender-specific results, ways, mechanisms and activities that will ensure their achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Often in the forensic context, child victims and witnesses are interviewed several times, exposing them to suggestive questions and social pressures. The present study had the main purpose of verifying the effect of coping strategies on the levels of immediate suggestibility and on the Resistant Behavioral Responses (RBRs) of children subjected to repeated suggestive interviews. A sample of 90 children, aged between 11 and 14, were administered the two parallel Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scales (GSS2 and GSS1) a few months apart and the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) to detect their coping strategies. The results showed that the avoidance coping increased suggestive vulnerability and reduced resistant responses. Task-oriented coping favored responses with greater source monitoring, which allow for the rejection of misleading information. Coping strategies did not show direct effects on the management of the socioemotional aspects involved in the suggestive interaction. After the negative feedback that invites children to be more accurate, a smaller effect of the avoidance strategy was recorded, indicating how actively requesting greater source monitoring can lead children to better recognize misleading information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important problems in forensic psychology is the impossibility of reliably discriminating between true and false memories when the only prosecution evidence comes from the memory of a witness or a victim. Unfortunately, both children and adults can be persuaded that they have been victims of past criminal acts, usually of a sexual nature. In adults, suggestion often occurs in the context of suggestive therapies based on the belief that traumatic events are repressed, while children come to believe and report events that never occurred as a result of repeated suggestive questioning. Cognitive Researchers have designed false memory paradigms (i.e., misinformation effect, Deese-Roediger-McDermott paradigm, event implantation paradigm) to first form false memories and then determine whether it is possible to reliably differentiate between false and true memories. In the present study, we review the contribution of cognitive research to the formation of false memories and the neuropsychological approaches aimed to discriminate between true and false memories. Based on these results, we analyze the applicability of the cognitive and neuropsychological evidence to the forensic setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]