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Sharing Violent Thoughts on the Internet
Rami Abukamil1, Jennifer L Piel2
1At the time this article was written, Dr. Abukamil was a Forensic Psychiatry Fellow, University of Cincinnati. Dr. Abukamil is currently a Staff Psychiatrist at Stein Hospital, Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Piel is Staff Psychiatrist, VA Puget Sound, and Assistant Professor and Associate Psychiatry Residency Program Director, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington. rabukami@health.nv.gov.
The Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
|February 21, 2019
Summary
The internet allows exploration of taboo thoughts, but online activities, like those in the United States v. Valle case, can lead to legal issues. Forensic experts can clarify risks associated with violent fantasies.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Cyberpsychology
- Law and Psychology
Background:
- Internet anonymity facilitates exploration of socially unacceptable thoughts, including violent and sadistic fantasies.
- Online activities, despite anonymity, can attract media and law enforcement scrutiny.
- The case of United States v. Valle highlights legal challenges arising from online expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the legal implications of expressing violent fantasies online.
- To analyze the tension between First Amendment rights and criminal activity in the digital age.
- To explore the role of forensic mental health experts in cases involving online fantasies.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of United States v. Valle (2015).
- Discussion of legal precedents concerning online speech and First Amendment protections.
- Review of the potential role of forensic mental health expertise.
Main Results:
- The Valle case illustrates the complex legal landscape where online expression of fantasies intersects with potential criminal liability.
- There is a significant tension between the right to free expression and the prosecution of certain online activities.
- Forensic mental health experts can provide crucial context regarding the nature and risk of violent fantasies.
Conclusions:
- Expressing violent fantasies online carries legal risks, even with perceived anonymity.
- The legal system faces challenges in balancing free speech with public safety concerns.
- Forensic mental health professionals are vital in educating legal decision-makers on the psychological aspects of such cases.