Controversial ethical issues in forensic psychiatry: a survey

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Ethical guidelines are crucial in forensic psychiatry.
• Previous surveys identified ambiguities and controversial topics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Psychiatry and Behavioral Science section.
• To determine ethical concerns regarding controversial issues.
• To inform revisions of ethical guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to AAFS members.
• Survey items included issues from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and AAFS Code of Ethics.

Main Results:

• Strong support was found for most surveyed ethical issues.
• Some items from earlier American Association of Professional (AAPL) guidelines lacked support.
• Clarification was achieved on ambiguous AAFS survey items.
• Significant support exists for including previously controversial topics in ethical guidelines.

Conclusions:

• Forensic psychiatry professionals endorse addressing a wider range of ethical issues.
• Survey results have influenced the revision of professional ethical standards.