Criminal Forensics

Definition

Within the field of forensic psychology, the utilization of clinical neuropsychological expertise for criminal forensic cases can be considered a subspecialty of the field. Denney and Wynkoop (2000) modified Mrad’s (1996) multiple data source model (MDSM) to the practice of criminal forensic neuropsychology. The purpose of the model is to provide a framework for clinicians to evaluate all relevant sources of information, most notably information relevant to the defendant’s mental state at the time of the offense. The model covers three time points of analysis: present, time of offense, and prior history. Moreover, the model assesses symptoms/behaviors, explanations, etc., via the self-report of the defendant as well as via other sources of data (e.g., neuropsychological tests, mental status exam, medical/neurological exam, arrest reports, witness statements, physical evidence, hospital/psychiatric records, employment records, family/friend reports, etc.). Once all of the...