Principles and Practice of Forensic Psychiatry (Hardcover)

Beginning with the development of the English legal system and the history of forensic psychiatry in England, the text goes on to consider the history of law and psychiatry in Europe and the USA.;The book provides both the academic basis of forensic psychiatry and a description of its current practice. The central theme is the psychiatry of individuals who are involved with the law, whether criminal or civil.;Criminal behaviour and the measurement of crime are considered together with the role of the psychologist and psychiatrist as a witness in court. Various mental and personality disorders such as schizophrenia, mental retardation and senile dementure are discussed together with different forms of violence such as family violence, sexual violence, suicide and torture as well as the victims of crime and bereavement. Under the heading "unusual behaviour and special groups", arson, shoplifting, gambling and the de Clerambault syndrome are discussed. The contributors then look at "substance abuse" and include details of alcohol and crime in Scandinavia, Australia, Canada and the USA. The law relating to children and adolescents is dealt with and includes topics such as child custody, adoption and fostering and the teatment and facilities available.;Throughout the book, assessemnt, treatment and management are emphasized.;The contributors cover not only the mental legislation in the UK but also that in Canada, the USA and Australia. The prison service and medical services are discussed looking at Parkhurst Prison, Her Majesty's Prison Grendon Underwood and the Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum, Dublin plus special units at Geneva and at Berlinnie Prision. Dutch and Danish forensic psychiatry are also discussed.;The text is directed towards forensic psychiatrists, criminal lawyers, criminologists, sociologists, forensic medicine specialists and the police.