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Psychological autopsies for equivocal deaths
1Department of Psychology, Loyola College in Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA.
International Journal of Emergency Mental Health
|March 10, 2001
Summary
The term "psychological autopsy" lacks standardized methods, impacting reliability. This study advocates for distinct approaches for suicide and equivocal death investigations, proposing specific guidelines for the latter.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Legal Medicine
Background:
- The term "psychological autopsy" has been used since 1958.
- There is a lack of consensual validation and operational standardization for psychological autopsy methods.
- This lack of standardization raises concerns about content validity and reliability in forensic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To argue for a clear differentiation between psychological autopsies conducted after suicide versus equivocal deaths.
- To propose the recognition of Equivocal Death Psychological Autopsy as a distinct methodology.
- To advocate for specific constituent elements and training guidelines for Equivocal Death Psychological Autopsy.
Main Methods:
- This paper presents a conceptual argument based on existing literature and clinical practice.
- It involves a critical review of the current application of psychological autopsy.
- The methodology emphasizes logical reasoning and the proposal of a refined framework.
Main Results:
- Psychological autopsies for suicide and equivocal deaths are not interchangeable.
- Equivocal Death Psychological Autopsy requires a unique set of elements and procedures.
- Standardization is crucial for the validity and reliability of these investigative tools.
Conclusions:
- A clear distinction must be made between psychological autopsies for suicide and equivocal deaths.
- Equivocal Death Psychological Autopsy should be recognized as a specialized field.
- Developing distinct training guidelines and operational standards is essential for accurate forensic assessments.