NCJ Number
246865
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 59 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2014 Pages: 790-792
Date Published
May 2014
Length
0 pages
Annotation
The objective of the study was to evaluate the mental status of all women n = 14 who were acquitted by reason of insanity of charges of murder or attempted murder and committed to a forensic psychiatric hospital in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the mental status of all women n = 14 who were acquitted by reason of insanity of charges of murder or attempted murder and committed to a forensic psychiatric hospital in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All cases were retrospectively examined, including medical files, technical records, and forensic experts' official reports. A conclusive psychiatric diagnosis was established using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I and II Disorders and clinical and forensic records. The most common diagnosis was schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders n = 8; 57.3%. Most victims n = 12; 75% were close relatives of the patients. We found that 43% n = 6 of the patients had a previous history of violent behavior. According to the initial psychiatric forensic evaluation, 5 patients 35.7% had psychotic symptoms. It is expected that a growing understanding of motivational factors underlying homicidal behavior in mentally disturbed female offenders may further the implementation of effective preventive and therapeutic interventions. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.