WHAT IS MALINGERING?

Malingering is the intentional production of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms, motivated by external incentives such as avoiding military duty, avoiding work, obtaining financial compensation, or obtaining drugs.

 

Motivation for exaggerated or feigned mental health symptoms is inherent to forensic evaluations. Individuals involved in legal cases may pretend to have mental health symptoms or exaggerate symptoms they genuinely have to avoid criminal prosecution or obtain disability services, worker's compensation, or personal injury/pain and suffering awards. It is for this reason malingering must be considered carefully.

 

OUR APPROACH: 

Every forensic evaluation includes an assessment of feigning or exaggeration. Expert Psychological Evaluations' psychologists conduct a thorough clinical interview, document behavioral observations, and review available records, looking for signs of inconsistency between or within reports, unusual reported symptoms or behaviors, and other signs of malingering. Psychological tests designed to detect feigning and exaggeration are frequently employed, and clinical interviews based on the scientific literature are the standard.