“Forensic Clinical Psychology as an Emerging ... - SRM University

Continuing Clinical Psychology Education Programme
Second National Symposium 2011
on
“Forensic Clinical Psychology
as an Emerging Profession in India”
10 th & 11 th September, 2011
Organised by
Department of Psychiatry &
Department of Clinical Psychology
Faculty of Medicine and Health Science
SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre
SRM University
and
Tamil Nadu Association of Clinical Psychologists
(Branch of IACP)

Patron
Dr. T. R. Pachamuthu
Chancellor
SRM University
Advisors
Thiru P. Ravi
Chairman, SRM University
Dr. R. Shivakumar
Pro-Chancellor, SRM University
Prof. P. Sathya Narayanan
Vice Chancellor, SRM University
Dr. M. Ponnavaiko
Vice Chancellor, SRM University
Dr. N. Sethuraman
Registrar, SRM University
Dr. M. Ganapathy
Director – Medical, SRM University
Dr. James Pandian
Dean – Medical, SRM University
Reception Committee Chairman
Dr. M. Thirunavukarasu
Prof & HOD Psychiatry, SRM University
Co-Chairman
Dr. T. V. A. Ragavan
Prof of Psychology (Retd), Annamalai University
Dr. K. Rangaswamy
Prof of Clinical Psychology (Retd)
Sweekar Rehabilitation Institute for Handicapped
Prof. S. Balakrishnan
Dept of Clinical Psychology, SRM University
Mr. K. Vijayan
President of TNACP
Asst Prof of Clinical Psychology
Institute of Mental Health
Organizing Secretary
Mrs. V. Smitha Ruckmani
Secretary, TNACP
Asst Prof, IMH, Chennai
Joint Organizing Secretary
Prof. Venugopal. M
Prof & HOD, Dept of Clinical Psychology
SRM University
Treasurer
Ms. A. G. Shanthi
Treasurer, TNACP
Asst Prof, IMH, Chennai
Event Organizing Committee Members
Press & Publicity
Dr. T. V. A. Ragavan
Prof. S. Balakrishnan
Dr. Kathik M. S
Reception Committee
Ms. A. G. Shanthi
Ms. Kavitha Dhanraj
Dr. Sathya D. Cheruki
Ms. P. Kalaivani
Ms. Surya Prabha G
Scientific Committee
Dr. K. Rangaswamy
Dr. V. Sethu Madhavan
Mr. K. Vijayan
Dr. Arun K
Mr. N. Sureshkumar
Dr. Karthik D
Ms. R. Rekha
Catering & Venue Committee
Prof. M. Venugopal
Mr. P. Rajaram
Ms. P. Pangajam
Dr. Parveen Sultan C
Registration Committee
Dr. K. Rangaswamy
Dr. O. S. Ravindran
Ms. Kavitha Dhanraj
Dr. Karthigai Priya
Ms. Hemamalini
Souvenir Committee
Prof. S. Balakrishnan
Mrs. S. M. Vasanthakumari
Mrs. V. Smitha Ruckmani
Ms. Priya G
Mr. Varadharajan S
Mr. Sudhakaran B
Accommodation & Transportation Committee
Mr. Sudhakaran B
Mr. Varadharajan S
Mr. Manoj R
Ms. P. Kalaivani

PROGRAM SCHEDULE
DAY 1
10-9-2011
Registration
Inauguration
High Tea
Symposium I
: 8.30 am
: 9.30 am
: 10.30 am
: 10.45 am – 1.00 pm
1. Criminal Responsibility and Related Issues .
Dr. T. V. Asokan, Prof. of Psychiatry, Stanley Medical College, Chennai.
2. Awareness Programme on Forensic psychology for Professionals.
Dr. S. L. Vaya, Director, Institute of Behavioral Science, Gujarat Forensic Science
University.
3. Forensic Psychological Functions of clinical psychologist in Mental Health
Centre.
Prof. K. Rangawamy, Former Dean and Professor of Clinical Psychology,
Sweekar Rehabilitation Institute for Handicapped, Secunderabad.
Lunch
: 1.00 pm – 2.00 pm
Symposium II : 2.00 pm – 3.45 pm
4. Development of Forensic Psychology in U.K
Dr. S. Upadhyaya, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Waddiloves Health Centre,
Bradford District Care, NHS Trust, UK.
5. Role Of Forensic Psychologist in Investigation and Rehabilitation
Mrs. Hemalatha. M, Scientific Officer, Forensic Sciences Department, Chennai.
Symposium III
: 4.00 pm – 5 pm
6. Scientific Methods for extraction of information form Suspects
Prof. Mukundan C. R, Prof. of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS, Bangalore.

DAY 2
11-09-2011
Symposium IV
: 9.00 am – 11 am
7. Recent Psychologist tool for Detection of Deception in Crime Investigation
Dr. Asha Srivatsava, Senior Scientific Officer I, Head Of division (Forensic
Psychology), CBI, New Delhi.
8. Certification of Forensic Psychology Cases: An important function of Clinical
Psychologist
Mr. K. Vijayan, Assistant Professor cum Clinical Psychologist. IMH, Chennai.
Tea Break
Symposium V
: 11.00 am -11.15 am
: 11.15 am – 1.00 pm
9. Forensic Psychology in U.S.A.
Dr. Ajayan. P, Director of Program Evaluation Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Centre,
Wards Island, New York.
10. Traumatic Brain injury: Neuropsychological Assessment and Forensic
Application.
Dr. Jamuna. R, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS,
Bangalore.
Valedictory Function
Lunch
: 1.00 pm – 2.00 pm
: 2.00 pm

Dr. T.R. Pachamuthu
Chancellor, SRM University
I am happy that the Tamil Nadu Association of Clinical
Psychologists (TNACP) is organizing the National
Symposium on "Forensic Clinical Psychology as an
Emerging Profession in India" on 10th and 11th
September, 2011 at the SRM University in association with
the Departments of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry,
SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre.
As legal aspects are closely related to the mental health
care delivery system, such a symposium would throw
more light on the rights of the mentally-ill and also on
the responsibilities of the care-givers.
I hope that the students, mental health professionals,
judicial and police personnel and the general public would
be benefited more by the deliberations and discussions
taking place in this useful and timely academic event.
I wish a good success.
Chancellor

Thiru. P. Ravi
Chairmain, SRM University
It gives me immense pleasure to note that the Second
National Symposium on ‘Forensic Clinical Psychology
as an emerging profession in India’ is being held at
our campus on 10th & 11th September, 2011.
It is a fact that half a century ago, we could not have
imagined a career that involved playing with human
DNA, taking 3D images of internal organs, or sending
140-charactr messages out of an online audience of
millions. But today, these are the jobs much sought
after, and some of the most exciting fields to get
into. The changes brought about by technology, new
working practices, new kind of work and international
competition has opened up a whole new vista of careers.
The popularity of forensic psychology has grown
phenomenally in the recent years due to the awareness
created in the mass media attracting many to choose
Forensic psychology as a career option today.
I wish this symposium all the success and convey my
good wishes for bringing together psychologists to
exchange scientific knowledge and recent studies on all
theoretical and methodological advances in psychology
as well.
Best Wishes,
Chairmain

Prof. P.Sathyanarayanan
President, SRM University
It is great pleasure to note that the Department of
Clinical Psychology and Department of Psychiatry
of SRM Medical College and Research Center and
Tamil Nadu Association of Clinical Psychologists are
jointly organizing a “Symposium of Forensic Clinical
Psychology as an Emerging Profession in India” and
is to be held on September 10th and 11th, 2011 at
SRM University.
Application of psychological principles, concepts
and assessment procedures to the legal process
and justice system is the subject matter of Forensic
Clinical Psychology and I hope the discussions at
the symposium would throw more light on these
aspects, especially in the Indian context.
I wish a grand success for this scientific meet.
With warm regards
President

Dr. R. Shivakumar
Vice President
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the SRM
University for the Forensic Clinical Psychology
Symposium on September 10th and 11th, 2011. I
am glad that the Department of Clinical Psychology
& Department of psychiatry in collaboration with
Tamil Nadu Association of Clinical Psychology is
conducting this conference on high quality.
This Symposium reflects the eclectic nature of
the Division of Forensic Psychology. The speakers
form National and International forensic science
would discuss about the application of scientific
principles and analytical techniques within a legal
context. It will be of interest to a wide range of
professionals working in the forensic field, such
as psychiatrist, psychologists, forensic medicine
police, social workers and solicitors.
I wish the organizers, speakers, professionals and
all the participants to share the cutting edge of
research, practice and unique insight on Forensic
Clinical Psychology. I believe this symposium will
offer the opportunity to network in a very friendly
and relaxed environment.
Vice President

His Excellency Sir. Dr. M. Ponnavaikko
Vice-Chancellor
I am happy to know that the Tamil Nadu Association of
Clinical Psychologists and the department of Psychiatry of
SRM University are jointly organizing the Second National
Symposium 2011 on “Forensic Clinical Psychology as an
Emerging Profession in India” a topic of current interest
during 10th and 11th of September 2011.
The Forensic Psychology is a specialization within the
domain of Clinical Psychology that involves the application
of psychological principles, concepts, and assessment of
procedures to the legal process and the justice system.
It provides psychological services for legal community.
Within the division of Psychiatry and Law, forensic
psychological evaluations are commonly conducted to
objectively determine the presence, type, and severity
of psychopathology associated with various psychiatric,
neurological, and developmental disorders. Adults,
adolescents, and elderly individuals are referred for such
evaluations. Forensic psychological evaluations provide
objective information regarding the validity of complaints
and the functional implications of psychiatric disorders
and psychological impairment regarding the conditions
in either civil or criminal cases. The popularity of Forensic
Psychology had grown phenomenally in recent years.
I am confident that leading professionals in the area of
Forensic Clinical Psychology will be delivering lecturers in
the Symposium on the recent developments in the area
and that the delegates of the Symposium will be highly
benefitted by the proceedings of the symposium.
I congratulate the organizers for organizing this National
Symposium on an important topic and I wish the
Symposium a grand success.
Vice-Chancellor

Dr. N. Sethuraman
Registrar, SRM University
I am happy to note that the Department of Clinical
Psychology and Department of Psychiatry in association
with the Tamilnadu Association of Clinical Psychologists
are organizing a National Conference on “Forensic Clinical
Psychology as an Emerging Profession in India” to be held
on 10th to 11th September 2011. I feel proud to say that
the Department has created an image of professional
education in various branches of Clinical Psychology.
The department since its inception is bringing laurels not
only for the institution but also to the entire group of SRM
institutions. The effort of staff and students and their coordination
is set to be a model and guidance for the future
generation. The support extended by the management for
all development is praiseworthy.
I, on behalf of the University whole heartedly congratulate
the Editorial Board, Supporting staff and the students of
the Department for their remarkable achievements in all
aspects and hope that they will continue to keep up their
tempo to make sure in shaping up the challenges ahead
of us.
I would like to place my special appreciations to the
committee members for organizing this National Conference
in a most innovative and a professional manner. I am
sure the participants will be greatly benefited from the
deliberations and mutual exchange of knowledge.
Registrar

Dr. M. Ganapathy
Director
Medical & Health Sciences, SRM University
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine has progressed
and caused imprint in different branches of Medicine
and Allied Sciences.
National Mental Health Program is an important
aspect of General well being of all people with in India
and abroad.
Clinical Psychologist has got a great role to play in
the care of people from childhood to old age.
I am very glad that the Tamil Nadu Association
of Clinical Psychologist is organizing a National
Symposium.
I am sure that deliberations at the symposium well
throw a new light into “Forensic Clinical Psychology
as Emerging Profession in India”.
I wish them all success.

Prof. M. Thirunavukarasu
Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry,
SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre
President,Indian Psychiatric Society
I happy to know that Tamil Nadu Association Of Clinical
Psychologists is organising Symposium on Forensic
Clinical Psychology on 10th and 11th of September
2011 at the SRM campus at Kattankulathur.
Forensic Clinical Psychology is an emerging profession
in our country. Tamil Nadu is always ahead and in
forefront in all scientific activities. Your association is
helping maintain the pioneering, and I am happy to
place on record my appreciation for the same.
SRM institutions and its organisation are known for
its commitment in research and development, and in
improvement of human resources in our country. They
are known for their organisational skill and hospitality
with a humane touch. The scientific program is very
satisfying with participation of international speakers.
The participants will also be benefited with the
outcome of the symposium.
I wish the symposium of Tamil Nadu Association of
clinical psychologists on Forensic clinical psychology
a grand success !
With warm regards,
Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry,
(Dr. Thirunavukarasu)

Dr. Malavika Kapur
President
Indian Association of Clinical Psychologist
This is to congratulate and wish all the best
to the organizers of the Continuing Clinical
Psychology Programme hosted by the Tamil
Nadu Association of Clinical Psychologists on
10.09.2011 and 11.09.2011.
It is indeed appreciable that a Symposium on
“Forensics Clinical Psychology as an Emerging
Profession in India”, the theme being both
timely and forward looking.
With best regards,
Malavika Kapur

Dr. R. Kumar, M.D., DPM,
Director
Institute of Mental Health, Chennai
I am happy that you are organizing
continuing clinical psychology education programme
as second national symposium on 10th and 11th Sep
at Chennai. The theme selected on “Forensic clinical
psychology as an emerging profession in India”
is very appropriate in the present scenario where
psychometric evaluation play an important role in
legal matters.
I wish all the success for the scientific
deliberation that will benefit to all the delegates.
With warm regards,
Dr. R. Kumar

K.Vijayan
President, TNACP
Tamil Nadu Association of Clinical Psychologists regularly
conducts academic programme under the guidance of
senior clinical psychologists who are the founders of
these association.
The second national continuing clinical psychology
educational programme with theme of “Forensic clinical
psychology as an emerging profession of India” on 10th
and 11th of 2011 at SRM University, Kattankulathur,
Chennai is very useful in today’s psychology practice in
private and government institutions.
I should appreciate all the young clinical psychologists
who have actively involved with utmost dedication and
enthusiasm to the success of this symposium.
I sincerely hope that the delegates and participant
will enjoy their stay and contribute towards enhancing
professional cooperation.
K.Vijayan

Sam Manickam
Hon. General Secretary – Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists
I am extremely thankful to the office bearers and all
the members of IACP Tamil Nadu Regional Branch for
taking the steps to conduct the 2nd National Continuing
Education Program in Clinical Psychology on September
10 and 11, 2011. I am glad that we could take forward
the national initiative that IACP started in 2009. At a time
when the central committee thought that we might have
to drop the national CE program, the IACP TN Branch has
come forward to organize it. My heartfelt congratulations
to you all!
About 6 months ago when Mr. Vijayan, the President
of IACP TN Branch discussed about the cases that the
state crime investigators referred for assessment and
evaluation, we thought that it would be educative for our
fellow professionals too if we could invite the Forensic
clinical psychology experts in the country to the city of
Chennai to listen to them and to have a dialogue with
them. And I am very optimistic that the deliberations on
these two days would enrich each one of us and help us
to deal with some of the challenges that we face in our
day-to-day work.
And thanks to the organizing committee, the SRM
University-the host institution and special thanks to Dr.
Thirunavakkarasu, President IPS and Dr. Venugopal,
Fellow of IACP from the host institution.
On behalf of IACP, best wishes to one and all- who are
coming from different states in India and those from
abroad.

Mrs.V. Smitha Ruckmani
Organizing Secretary,Secretary – TNACP
It is a great pleasure inviting all domain specialist and other
dignitaries for the Second National Level Symposium in Forensic
Clinical Psychology to be held on 10th & 11th September 2011. As
the secretary of TNACP, (Branch of IACP) and organizing secretary
of this symposium, I am proud of these memorable days, hope
and wish that every participant will benefit through this specific
National Level Symposium organized by TNACP in the terrain of
southern part of India.
The theme of this year (2011) is “Forensic Clinical Psychology as an
emerging profession in India“. Forensic Clinical Psychology is the
intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system.
Forensic psychologist is designated as an expert in a particular
jurisdiction. It involves understanding criminal law in the relevant
jurisdictions in order to be able to interact appropriately with
judges, magistrates and other legal professionals.
An important aspect of Forensic Psychology is the ability in
reformulating psychological findings into the legal language of the
courtroom, appraising information to legal personnel in a way that
can be understood by all sectors.
Forensic Psychology knowledge must be integrated with the
psychological information obtained from psychological testing,
mental status examination and appropriate background materials,
such as police reports, prior psychiatric or psychological evaluations,
medical records and other available pertinent information.
Thus, a forensic psychologist must be able to translate psychological
information into a legal framework. In forensic evaluations,
it is important to assess the consistency of factual information
across multiple sources. Malingering exists on a continuum, so
the forensic psychologist must be skilled in recognizing varying
degrees of feigned symptoms.
I hope this National Level Symposium of Forensic Clinical
Psychology will be a benefit for the Medical Departments, Police
Departments, Judicial Sectors and those who practice Forensic
psychology.
I thank our organizing dignitaries, TNACP Members, event
organizing committee members, our delegates, participants, our
sponsors and well wishers. Especially, I am thankful to the SRM
University for providing all their valuable support to conduct the
symposium at their premises.
With Warm regards
V.Smitha Ruckmani

R. Neelakanta Pillai, Msc
Director I/C
Forensic Sciences Department
Forensic psychology is the intersection between
psychology and the criminal justice system. It involves
understanding criminal law, in order to enable the
forensic psychologist to interact appropriately with
judges, lawyers and legal professionals. An important
aspect of forensic psychology is the ability to testify
in court, reformulating psychological findings into the
legal language of the courtroom, providing information
to legal personnel in a way that can be understood.
The theme of the conference “Forensic Clinical
Psychology as an Emerging Profession in India” is
indeed very relevant and important today. In recent
times the perpetrators of crime are increasingly aware
about their “right to remain silent” – a constitutional
guarantee to the individual’s liberty. In such scenario,
extraction of truth has become next to impossible
which demands the necessity of new forensic approach
using psychological tools to detect both the crime and
the criminal. This conference will provide a forum for
analyzing the new horizons of the clinical psychology
in the field of Forensic Science and its growing need in
the criminal justice administration.
I extend my hearty greetings to the organizers as well
the participants and wish the conference all success.

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CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY AND FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY
Dr. T. V. A. Ragavan, Prof of Psychology (Retd), Annamalai University
A study of basic psychology provides us with an understanding of the nature of the mental processes
and the functions of the nervous system. Within its ambit it describes and explains such of the
important concepts as learning, attention, remembering, feelings and emotions, motivation, nature
of personality etc. These together, lead to the general understanding of the total human behaviour.
Over the past few centuries, the frontiers of psychology has expanded so much that it had given
rise to several branches of applied psychology which are beneficially used in various kinds human
endeavours.
The range includes:
• Educational Psychology {psychological principles and theories contributing to the
advancement of education)
• Prison Psychology where psychologists are involved in correctional services
• Clinical Psychology where psychologists work in hospitals and clinics (providing services to
the emotionally disturbed individuals)
• Occupational Psychology (psychologists who help in the choice of suitable avocations with
appropriate aptitude and relevant interests)
• Academics who engage themselves in teaching and/or research work in psychology
In the field of psychology CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY occupies the center stage as an important applied
branch of the subject. As a professional a clinical psychologists occupies a significant position in
the field of mental health. Most of them possess a post graduate degree with Psychology as major.
Then after two years of further study, they undergo an internship in a clinical or hospital setting for
a year.
The clinical psychologists are sufficiently exposed to psychological testing, assessment and evaluation.
They contribute to the process of diagnosis, not just by labeling a disorder such as schizophrenia, bipolar
disorder or depression but also makes one appreciate the pre-disposing, precipitating and the
perpetuating factors to enable the client’s improve the nature of his/her personal relationships and
the quality of work. This is done by adopting various therapeutic techniques such as desensitization
and psychological counseling.
Forensic Psychology probably is one of the youngest siblings in the field of applied psychology.
Though seeds were sown for the development of this discipline in the late 19 th century, it
gained momentum after the Second World War. Forensic Psychology is an applied branch that
is concerned with the collection, examination and presentation of adequate and appropriate
evidence for judicial purposes (Howard 1981). Psychological information is provided to facilitate a

legal decision (Blackburn 1996). The data for diagnostic purposes are gathered through variety of
methods such as personal interview, history-taking, administration of psychological tests (eg WAIS)
to assess cognitive functions and projective tests (Rorschach ink-blot). There are also tools to assess
anxiety, depression etc. Clients’ responses (verbal and non verbal), change in facial expressions and
distorted communications may also be helpful in making the diagnosis.
Thus we find a close relationship between Clinical and Forensic Psychology. Forensic Psychology
ultimately aims at understanding deviant behaviours of clients like feigning, malingering,
hypochondriasis etc and link it with the process of law to deliver justice to the accused for their
harmful misbehaviours.
The word forensic comes from the word ‘Fores’ which means a forum (court). In the present day
context of increasing economic and social crimes of immense magnitude and in diversified areas as
reported in print and electronic media, forensic psychology is expected to further grow as a more
specialized applied science.

FORENSIC ISSUE OF MENTAL RETARDATION
DR.K. Rangaswami. M.A., DM & SP, Ph.D
FORMER DEAN AND PROF OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
S.R.I, SECUNDERABAD
Mentally retarded present a complex problem for the courts and correctional facilities. It is
estimated that although the prevalence of mental retardation is less than 1-2% of the population,
mentally retarded individuals represent 4-10% of those in the criminal justice system (Petersilia,
1997; Sundram, 1990). The deficits of mentally retarded individuals are not always readily apparent
to the forensic clinician. Many intellectually impaired go through the criminal justice system
without adequate attention to their unique needs. Mentally retarded individuals are at a distinct
disadvantage. Mentally retarded individuals are more likely to waive essential rights, to confess, to
go to trial, to plead guilty, (Goldman, 2001)
The disabilities are of these people commonly missed by the police, lawyers, and the correctional
system. Questions regarding competence and criminal responsibility are rarely raised, with those
individuals with mild retardation.
Definition of Mental Retardation: The American Association of Mental Retardation (AAMR,
2002) defines mental retardation as being characterized by sub average intellectual functioning
as indicated by an IQ that is at least two standard deviations below the mean of a given measure
of intelligence, which typically translates into a cutoff IQ score of approximately 70 on most
intellectual measures. Intellectual deficits alone are not sufficient for diagnosis but must also be
accompanied by limitations in adaptive skills deficits in the areas of social functioning, conceptual
skills, communication, and practical daily living skills, as indicated by performance on measures of
adaptive functioning that are two standard deviations, below the mean (AMMR, 2002).
The American Psychiatric Association’s definition of mental retardation is similar, requiring a threepronged
criterion of (1) an IQ less than 70; (2) deficits in adaptive functioning, and (3) onset before
age 18 (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000). However IQ scores can vary over time and
across situations and carry with them a degree of testing error (Kanaya et al., 2003).
The etiology of mental retardation is multifactorial and involves numerous risk factors. The AMMR
identifies four categories of risk for development of mental retardation (biomedical, social,
behavioral, and educational) that can occur across three time dimensions (prenatal, perinatal and
postnatal) (AMMR, 2002). Most of the mentally retarded individuals are in the mild range of mental
retardation, corresponding to IQ between 55 and 75. Individuals with mild mental retardation
usually do not have an outward sign of disability and appear to the general public as “normal”.
Severe forms of mental retardation are screened out because their intellectual deficits are obvious.
They have noticeable communication difficulties, and associated physical problems that are apparel
to the casual observer. In contrast, individuals with mild mental retardation may not be recognized
until the initiation of legal process.

Mental retardation associated with deficits that affect most of the areas of functioning and are
persistent. In contrast, severe traumatic brain injury may result in global deficits or alternately
might result in focalized deficits with other areas of functioning remaining intact. Further, in brain
injury cases functional deficits may improve over time with treatment (Lezak, 1995). In certain cases
involving mentally retarded individuals, it is desirable to do a comprehensive neuropsychological
evaluation in addition to assessment of intellectual and adaptive functioning to available specific
functional areas such as language skills, executive functioning etc. That might be relevant to a
particular forensic issue.
Characteristics of the Mentally Retarded offender: Regarding intelligence and adaptive functioning,
mentally retarded defendants have specific deficits in social functioning and reasoning which affect
the judicial process. Some other characteristics also undermine the mentally retarded individual’s
ability to participate in defense. However some individuals are considered competent to confess,
to stand trial, or to make intelligent decisions and are convicted, Failing to understands their rights,
confused by the process, and agreeing with statements and decisions, which are unfair and not
to their benefit are not fit a stand trial. Forensic psychologist should assist the defendant’s true
functioning and understanding. Other sources of information may provide additional information
about the individuals typical functioning.
Nature of Crimes committed by Mentally Retarded Individuals: Individuals with mental retardation
may be susceptible to particular types of crimes because of the nature of their deficits. Poor impulse
control, limited planning ability, judgment and poor coping skills that cause difficulty in day-today
functioning can provide the background to criminal behavior (Kinsler, Saxman, and Fishman,
2004). The violent, out - of control mentally retarded offender: usually charged with committing
misdemeanors and less serious crimes (White and Wood, 1986). Many commit crimes that they do
not fully understand. When a crime has been committed, they usually do not run away and hence
first to be caught. Mentally retarded offenders have poor impulse control and inhibitory behaviors.
Assaultive behaviors frequently seen with institutionalized individuals with mental retardation.
Estimate of aggressive behavior causing injury to others is 36.9% (Hill and Bruinink, 1984). Individuals
who are forensically hospitalized for aggression, the rates of post admission aggression indicates
a higher prevalence of 46.5% (Novaco and Taylor, 2004) Further, studies have suggested that as
intellectual functioning declines, there is a rise in the rate of aggression (Hill and Bruinink, 1984;
Novaco and Taylor, 2004). Violent crimes such as assault and homicide are unplanned responses
to intense feelings of fear, anger, or panic, occasionally resulting when another crime goes wrong.
Sexual offenses are also common in the forensic population with mental retardation. Estimates
suggest that mentally retarded individuals commit approximately 10-15% of all exposure, sexual
touching, and other minor offense (Day, 1997). Retrospective analysis demonstrates that many of
these individuals are lacking in adequate training concerning appropriate expressions or lack or
absence of appropriate understanding of social rules.
The prevalence of psychiatric disorder in individuals with mental retardation is four to six times
greater than the general population (McLean, 1993).The symptoms of psychiatric disorders present

in mentally retarded individuals, complicating diagnostic accuracy (Glick and Zigler, 1995) noted
that psychiatric in-patients with mental retardation demonstrated a significantly higher rate of
expressing their symptoms actively, outwardly, and aggressively in comparison to inpatients without
mental retardation. Individuals presenting with both mental retardation and psychiatric disorder
are more likely to incur diagnoses that reflect aggressive and antisocial behavior than psychiatric
patients of normal intelligence. Hence thorough diagnostic evaluation in legal situations where
there is any suspicion of mental retardation is herded (Kinsler et al., 2004)
Criminal Responsibility: Individuals with mental retardation suffer at every stage in the criminal
process from the moment of arrest through the trial process. They are at a disadvantage because of
the social defects associated their disability. When first arrested, individuals with mental retardation
may do not realize the gravity of the charges and simply know that they are in trouble and afraid,
and blurt out confessions. The mentally retarded individual may not be aware of the need for legal
counsel.
Competence to Stand Trial: Competence to stand trial is a complicated issue with these mentally
retarded defendants. If a defendant sufficiently presents the ability to consult lawyer with
a reasonable degree of rational understanding, and factual understanding of the processing
against him, it implies that the individual is able to utilize knowledge to assist their lawyers and
thus participate defense. Many mentally retarded defendants are unable to weigh options
and make reasonable decisions regarding how to handle the case. The forensic clinician has to
conduct a thorough, assessment and ask questions to evoke recitation of facts and also assesses a
defendant’s rational understanding by asking. Criminal responsibility is ultimately determined by
the court; however, forensic evaluators may offer clinical opinions regarding the extent to which
mental retardation might affect a defendant’s ability to appreciate the wrongfulness of the crime
committed. As committed mental retardation itself is not an adequate defense against a criminal
act, yet, forensic evaluators can play a vital role by documenting specific deficits as they pertain to
criminal offenses committed by mentally retarded defendants.
A forensic report should address three main issues. First, a thorough review of the individual’s
history with special attention paid to any signs of cognitive deficits or developmental delays noted
prior to age 18. Second, an intelligence test should be used to assess the current intellectual deficits.
A recent survey of forensic experts conducted by Lally (2003), the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales
– Third Edition (WAIS-III) was rated as a “recommended” or “acceptable” instrument to evaluate
issues of competency and mental state at the time of offense. Third, the evaluation should include
a measure of adaptive functioning, of which several are routinely used (e.g., Vineland Adaptive
Behavior Scales). Such instruments are typically completed by interviewing caregivers or relatives,
which enables to rate the individual on a variety of functional domains. These ratings include some
assessment of social functioning, communication skills, and daily living/self-care tasks. When
mental retardation has been established historically or through current evaluation, the evaluator
must explore specific deficits associated they relate to the legal question. If an individual meet the
criteria for diagnosis of mental retardation and deficits in his “factual” and “rational” understanding

of the proceedings against him, a clear and supported clinical opinion can be given regarding how
mental retardation might affect the individual’s competency to stand trial.
A preliminary “screen” might include inability to read, write, tell time, or make change. Individuals
having mental retardation are slow to respond to questions, inordinately quiet or unable to explain
their actions in any detail. Historical indicators include special education placement, failure to hold
a steady job, or lack of independent living. Mental retardation is a condition requiring cognitive and
behavioral assessment, it is important that forensic evaluator conducting such assessments should
have adequate training in clinical and the legal aspects of mental retardation. Ethical conduct
requires forensic evaluators to be cautious of the limitations of psychological tests. Many widely used
forensic instruments are not quite inappropriate for use with mentally retarded defendants, (Hurley
and Deal, 2006). Few instruments have been specifically developed for evaluating competency
issues with mentally retarded defendants. However, the CAST – MR (Competence Assessment for
Standing Trial for Defendants with Mental Retardation) attempts to sidestep traditional problems
inherent in evaluating mentally retarded defendants, which include language limitations, a focus on
symptoms rather than concrete legal understanding, and an open-ended format that often yields
inaccurate results (Everington, 1990).
References
American Association of Mental Retardation. (2002a). Mental Retardation: Definition, Classification,
and Systems of Supports. 10 th ed. Annapolis, MD: Author.
American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders. IV-TR
Fourth Edition (Text Revision), Washington, DC:
Day, K. (1997). Clinical features and offensive behaviour of mentally retarded sex offenders: A review
of research. The NADD Newsletter, 14, 86-89.
Glick, M. and Zigler, E. (1995), Developmental differences in the symptomatology of psychiatric inpatients
with and without mild mental retardation. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 99(4),
407-417.
Goldman, M. (2001). Systematic treatment of criminal offenders having developmental delay. The
NADD Bulletin, 4(3), 56-57.
Hill, B.K. and Bruinink, R.H. (1984). Maladaptive behavior of mentally retarded individuals in
residential facilities. American Journal of Mental Deficiency, 88, 380-387.
Hurley, K.E. and Deal, W.P. (2006) Assessment instruments measuring malingering used with individuals
who have mental retardation. Potential problems and issues. Mental retardation,44(2),112-119.
Kanaya, T., Scullin, M.H., and Ceci, S.J. (2003). The Flynn Effect and U.S. policies. American
Psychologist, 58(10), 778-790.
Kinsler, P.J., Saxman, A., and Fishman, D.B. (2004). The Vermont Defendant Accommodation project:
A case study. Psychology, Public Policy and Law, 10(1/2), 134-161.

Lally, S.J. (2003). What tests are acceptable for use in forensic evaluations? A survey of experts:
Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 34(5), 491-498.
Lezak, M.D.(1995). Neuropsychological Assessment.3 rd ed. New York: Oxford University Press.
McLean, W.E.(1993). Overview. J.L. Matson and R.P. Barrett (Eds.), psychopathology in the Mentally
Retarded (2 nd ed.,pp.1-16.). Needham Heights, M.A: Allyn and Bacon.
Murphy, W., Coleman, E., and Haynes, M.(1983). Treatment and evaluation issues with the mentally
sex offender. J.G. Greer and I.R. Stuart (Eds.), The Sexual Aggressor: Current Perspective on Treatment
(pp.22-41). New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.
Navaco, R.W. and Taylor, J.L. (2004) Assessment of anger and aggression in male offenders with
developmental disabilities. Psychological Assessment, 16(1), 42-50.
Petersilia, J. (1997). Justice for All? Offenders with Mental Retardation and the California Corrections
system. The Prison Journal, 77(4), 358.
Sundram, C. (1991). Inmates with Developmental Disabilities in New York correctional Facilities.
Albany : New York State Commission of Quality Care for the Mentally Disabled. http:// www.
thearc.org/posists/crimjustricepos.doc.
White, D and Wood, H. (1986) The Lancaster Country, Pennsylvania, Mentally Retarded Offenders
Program. The Prison Journal, 65(1), 77-84
WISH YOU ALL SUCCESS FOR THE SYMPOSIUM
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE S R M UNIVERSITY
Prof G RAJAMOHAN
Editor Health & Beauty Monthly Magazine
Shortly celebrating its 20th year
Chairman Curriculum Development Committee RCI
Professor of Psychotherapy & Counseling
TAMILNADU OPEN UNIVERSITY
On this occasion
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we extend
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our thanks and
Dr. R.A÷\õPß M.D.
Gratitude to the
Dr. N.BÚ¢z M.D., D.D., D.V., D.N.B.
Dr. K.BÚ¢uPsnß M.S. D.O.
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Dr. R.K. Q›áõ \[Pº Prison M.D., A.B (IM) Psychologists
Dr. V. ÷Áu‰ºzv M.D, DM.
And proposed to establish Dr R.훵÷©è Mental M.D. Health Clinics/
Dr. V.öá´\[Pº M.B., D.C.H.
Hospices in all Districts In Thamizhnadu
Dr. T. Põ©µõä M.D., Ph.D.
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Best wishes from P Gunasekaran Publisher Health & Beauty
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HISTORY OF SRM
1968 - Mr. T.R. Pachamuthu, the Chancellor, SRM University, began his pursuit to provide top
class education by establishing a school - 'Florence Nightingale Primary School' - in Chennai
in the year 1968. In the same year, the Valliammai Society in honour of his mother Mrs. R.
Valliammai, was founded.
1985 - The 'SRM Engineering College' was established in Kattankulathur, near Chennai, and
soon grew into numerous SRM centers of learning.
2002 - The 'SRM College of Dentistry' was awarded the status of deemed university by the
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