This is an interesting case, where a forensic psychologist points out the need for skepticism when dealing with claims of reduced capability.
Can Arslan is on trial for murdering his neighbor. Arslan says that he was told to by a childhood teddy bear.
However, John Sandford expert forensic psychologist raises some interesting points when it comes to the claims.
Much the same as one symptom is often not indicative of any one disease, the forensic psychologist points out that auditory hallucinations will come as a package of symptoms. Often those who hear voices will engage with and be distracted by those voices.
“With forensic psychology you have to have a degree of scepticism,” Dr Sandford said.
He added: “When you get a voice on its own you are always very sceptical, but when you get a voice on its own after a serious offence you are even more sceptical.”
Sandford also pointed out that generally, the auditory hallucinations fit in within a delusional framework for instance CIA or KGB delusions.
However, the article does point out that Arslan according to the court does appear to have a level of narcissism.
I thought seeing a forensic psychologist speak on the need for skepticism was a really crucial point.