The Simpson trial: lessons for mental health practitioners.
The author reflects on the emotional impact of the O.J. Simpson trial and verdict and contends that the issues and concerns generated by the trial are mental health issues. The lack of leadership of mental health professionals in helping people to deal with their reactions to these events is noted. From this experience, seven lessons for mental health professionals are proposed. In particular, a call is made for mental health practitioners who are committed to cultural diversity to become more involved in understanding and responding to racially charged, community-rupturing events like the Simpson trial and verdict.
Shorter-Gooden
K
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California School of Professional Psychology-Los Angeles, Alhambra 91803-1360, USA.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D006281:Health Occupations; D006708:Homicide / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008603:Mental Health; D011822:Race Relations; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D014481:United States