Psychiatry and Criminal Culpability

Using an extremely accessible style, this timely book addresses one of the most important and controversial issues in psychology and criminal justice. Renowned in psychiatric and legal circles, Slovenko analyzes the insanity defense and the role of psychiatric testimony under it as well as under a not guilty plea in evaluating culpability. He explores the distinctions between mental illness and the legal concept of insanity. Traces historical formulations of criminal responsibility and examines current legal and psychiatric ideas regarding the relationship between culpability and insanity. Includes evaluations of the Hinkley and Dahmer cases.