The use of test instruments in forensic report writing – Explorative research in Flanders. (September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: De Clercq, Machteld; Vander Laenen, Freya
• Is Part Of: International journal of law and psychiatry. Volume 66(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-09
• Subjects: Forensic psychiatric report writing -- Test instruments -- Third-party information; Forensic psychiatry -- Periodicals; Insanity (Law) -- Periodicals; Criminal psychology -- Periodicals; Forensic Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychiatrie médico-légale -- Périodiques; Aliénation mentale -- Périodiques; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; Electronic journals; 614.15
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2019.101454
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-2527

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Forensic psychiatric reports have a profound impact on the life of a defendant, on society and on the mental health system. Good-quality reports are essential but are often criticized for their lack of thorough substantiation. The use of multiple methods to obtain information, test instruments (psychological and/or risk) and third-party information are recommended. Study purpose: To explore the use of test instruments and third-party information, as part of a multi-method approach, in forensic psychiatric evaluations. We examined 151 court-ordered expert reports in Flanders (Belgium). Results: A psychological test instrument was used in 61% of the cases, and a risk taxation instrument in 19% of the cases. Third-party information was used in 43% of the cases. Conclusions: A multi-method approach is not common practice in forensic psychiatric evaluations. The use of validated test instruments and third-party information can be improved. The quality of forensic reports could be improved by the establishment of a forensic observation centre and the use of a standardized approach.