Forensic Psychology: Insanity, Criminal Responsibility, and Diminished Capacity

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the insanity defense and criminal responsibility as discussed in forensic psychology.

Insanity Defense

A legal defense that claims a defendant was not responsible for their actions due to a mental illness at the time of the crime.

Mens Rea

The mental state or intent required for a person to be held criminally responsible.

M'Naghten Rule

A standard for insanity that states a defendant is not responsible for a crime if at the time of the act, they did not know the nature of the act or did not know it was wrong.

Wild Beast Test

An early standard of insanity stating that a person is not responsible for their actions if they lack understanding and memory, akin to an infant or a wild beast.

Diminished Capacity

A legal defense allowing defendants to argue that they were not fully responsible for their actions due to mental impairment.

Competency to Stand Trial

Refers to a defendant's ability to understand the nature of the charges and proceedings against them and to assist in their own defense.

Irresistible Impulse Test

A test that determines whether a defendant is unable to control their actions or to conform their conduct to the law due to mental illness.

Guilty But Mentally Ill (GBMI)

A verdict that acknowledges a defendant's mental illness but also asserts guilt for the crime, resulting in treatment followed by incarceration.

Civil Commitment

The legal process through which individuals with mental illness can be ordered to receive treatment involuntarily.

Automatism

A defense claiming that the defendant's actions were involuntary, hence negating responsibility for a crime.