Psychopathy and the Insanity Defense: A Grounded Theory Exploration of Public Perception
Date
2017-05
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Abstract
Modern advances in neuropsychology have demonstrated the significance of a psychopathic
individual’s impairment and the moral deficit present in psychopathy. These findings have
brought increasing support towards allowing psychopathic individuals to rightly utilize the
insanity defense, however public opinion has not seemed to change alongside the research. This
study examined the public’s perception of psychopathy and the insanity defense, as well as the
perceived merit of allowing psychopathic individuals to utilize the insanity defense. Semi-structured
interviews were conducted using grounded theory methodology to develop a theory
regarding the modern perception of psychopathy and the insanity defense, as well as the
perception of whether psychopathic individuals qualify for the insanity defense. Perceptions of a
psychopathic individual ranged from a charming serial killer, such as Ted Bundy, to a reclusive
individual with psychotic tendencies. The insanity defense was most commonly perceived as
overused and a cop-out, albeit necessary in some situations. Support was found both for and against psychopathic individuals utilizing the insanity defense, respectively based on either
perceived impairment or a need for them to be punished for their offenses.
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology
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Thesis
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Keywords
Psychology, Criminology, Psychopathy