The forensic role of the child psychiatrist in child abuse and neglect cases.
Child psychiatrists play important roles in the legal system. By training and experience, they have unique insight into the emotional life of the child, the dynamics of the family system, and the relationship between child and parent. They help provide objective information to the judge and jury for making difficult legal decisions in child abuse and neglect-related cases. Functioning in various roles, child psychiatrists must reach a clear understanding with the hiring party as to the reason for the consultation, what materials and interviews are necessary for a comprehensive evaluation, the charges involved, and ethical principles to be followed. They must recognize and negotiate the challenges for objectivity in these forensic evaluations. Finally, they should understand that the role of the child psychiatrist in forensic issues is a dynamic one that is shaped by the ever-evolving response of society, law, and the medical profession to the phenomena of child abuse and neglect.
Leavitt
Willis T
WT
Forensic Psychiatry Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-50001, USA. willis.leavitt@hqda.army.mil
Armitage
David T
DT
D000293:Adolescent; D000300:Adoption / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D002651:Child Advocacy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002655:Child Custody / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002665:Child Psychiatry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry; D005581:Foster Home Care / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D010819:Physician's Role; D014481:United States