PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST USE IN CRIMINAL FORENSIC EVALUATIONS

The authors surveyed forensic psychologists and psychiatrists (about 80% of whom were board certified) regarding their use of psychological testing in evaluations for competence to stand trial (CST; n = 102) and criminal responsibility (CR; n = 96), as well as their opinions about the importance of psychological testing for these evaluations. Psychological testing was perceived as either essential oi recommended by approximately two thirds of the respondents for CR evaluations and by approximately one half for the CST evaluations, with no significant differences between psychologists and psychiatrists. Frequency of reported use of psychological tests was consistent with these opinions among forensic psychologists but was significantly lower for forensic psychiatrists. Data are also provided on the frequency with which respondents report using specific tests and categories of tests, including specialized forensic assessment instruments.