The Determination of Malingered Psychosis

Authors

  • Erika Tinsley Independent Researcher, Brentwood School, Los Angeles, California

Keywords:

psychology, forensic science, psychosis, malingering, criminology

Abstract

In this pilot study, twelve forensic scientists, qualified under Los Angeles Court, were asked a series of questions about malingering, including methods to determine such a disorder, issues that directly affect this field, as well as potential solutions to improve forensic science. Ultimately, twelve forensic scientists discussed that the best methods for determining psychosis are through in-depth clinical review, gathering information from family or friends, and a DSM diagnostic test, a manual discussing the classifications of mental disorders that explains the symptoms of each. By utilizing these methods, many forensic scientists highlighted that another professional would not have difficulty deciphering true psychosis from malingering, but that it only happens in a case where the scientist lacks training or experience. The issue facing the justice system today is that if a forensic scientist happens to be inexperienced in their field and misdiagnoses a patient with genuine psychosis, how could this affect the rest of the forensic population and other patients? The article highlights some possibilities, such as allowing the patient to escape justice and reviewing the current state of their profession.

References

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Published

2022-10-31

How to Cite

Tinsley, E. (2022). The Determination of Malingered Psychosis. International Journal of Formal Sciences: Current and Future Research Trends, 15(1), 133–139. Retrieved from https://ijfscfrtjournal.isrra.org/index.php/Formal_Sciences_Journal/article/view/739

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Articles