NCJ Number
75555
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1981) Pages: 116-122
Date Published
1981
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the evolving role of forensic psychiatrists as they participate in resolving terrorist-related crises and reviews some of the functions involved in open community/terrorist confrontations, closed community/terrorist confrontations, and psychiatric/terrorist relations.
Abstract
Dealing with terrorism is a potentially hazardous but relevant extension of the role of the forensic psychiatrist. Psychiatrists may be asked to act as intermediaries between terrorists and the State or as forensic experts in courts. They also treat victims of terrorism or imprisoned terrorists. Terrorist-patients are a particularly difficult clientele because they should not be treated in unsecured forensic psychiatry hospitals due to their proven danger to staff and other patients; facilities should be sought in the prison system. However, to avoid being perceived as policemen, jailers, or collaborators, forensic psychiatrists should seek the formal approval of the medical profession so that there is no question concerning their professional identity. Psychiatrists should also avoid naive interaction with the media by appropriate governmental briefing. There is much that psychiatrists can do to help the victims of terrorism, including assessment, rehabilitation, and presentation of medicolegal evidence. Relevant terrorist events in Ireland are described, relevant literature is evaluated, and 15 references are included.