Week 3 Assignment 1: Insanity or Excuse?

(CC2, CC3):  This week we learned about the typical roles of psychologists consulting with the criminal courts, as well as reviewed the legal standards for competency and criminal responsibility.  An important role of a forensic psychologist is to conduct forensic mental health assessments (FMHAs) which help determine the defendant’s mental state at the time of the offense or their competency to stand trial.  

For this assignment, please address each of the following in a 4-5 page paper:

1. Comparison:  (1-2 pages)  Compare the assessment of competence to stand trial and that of sanity/criminal responsibility.

2.  Five Competencies:  (1-2 pages)  Identify at least five competencies in criminal suspects and defendants that might have to be assessed by forensic psychologists.

3.  Landmark Case:  (2-3 pages)  Identify and discuss a landmark insanity case.  Provide a summary of the case and discuss how competency played a role in the case.  Why was competency brought into question?  What was the final ruling and how was that determined?  Do you agree or disagree with the determination?

You may focus on one of the eight cases listed on page 178 of your textbook, or you can research additional cases.

Additional Considerations:

• Assignment should be 4-5 pages.

• APA (Links to an external site.) Formatting required.

• A minimum of 3 references required.