Journal Published Online: 01 November 1997
Volume 42, Issue 6

Forensic Analysis and Psycholegal Implications of Parricide and Attempted Parricide

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

In a retrospective archive study, 64 adjudicated adult cases involving the murder or attempted murder of at least one parent, referred for forensic evaluations are described. Biographic, demographic, diagnostic, crime scene, psycholegal opinion, and disposition data are presented. Results indicated a 40% rate of insanity acquitees. Attempted parricide subjects were more likely to have inpatient psychiatric histories, witnesses present during the criminal act, nonresponsiveness towards their actions, competency raised, and a hospital disposition. Gender and ethnicity were found to have a significant effect on ultimate disposition. Fifty-four percent of the sample opined psychotic were sentenced to prison, suggesting other factors considered by judge and jury. Profile characteristics and typologies are presented. The findings are compared to studies involving parricide and legal strategies involving similar cases.

Author Information

Weisman, AM
University of Southern California School of Medicine, and Staff Psychologist at California Department of Corrections Region III Parole Outpatient Clinic, Los Angeles, CA
Sharma, KK
University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
Pages: 7
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS14270J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14270J