Journal Published Online: 01 May 1992
Volume 37, Issue 3

Dangerousness of the Delusional Misidentification of Children

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Misidentification syndromes have been studied from a variety of perspectives, including phenomenological, biological, and nosological approaches. More recently, misidentification syndromes have been studied from a psychiatric-legal perspective, especially with regards to the problem of dangerousness. Capgras syndrome and other syndromes of misidentification can lead to hostile mood and subsequent physical violence. Little attention has so far been devoted to children as the objects of the psychotic person's misidentification delusion(s). We provide a review of cases from the anglophonic literature that have children as the misidentified objects, add three new cases, and then discuss the relationship between misidentification and potential harm to these children.

Author Information

Arturo Silva, J
Psychiatry Service (B116A)-Ward 207A, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
Sharma, KK
Institute of Psychiatry and Law, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Leong, GB
Psychiatry Service (B116A)-Ward 207A, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
Weinstock, R
Psychiatry Service (B116A)-Ward 207A, West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11994J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11994J