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Forensische Psychiatrie im Zeitalter der „neuroscience“

Stand und Perspektive neurobiologischer Forschung

Forensic psychiatry in the era of neuroscience

Present status and outlook for neurobiological research

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Zusammenfassung

Fortschritte in der naturwissenschaftlichen Forschung beeinflussen unser Bild des Menschen und seiner wesentlichen Verhaltensdeterminanten. Ausgehend von neurobiologischen Befunden werden auch zentrale Inhalte der forensischen Psychiatrie kritisch hinterfragt. Im Folgenden werden aktuelle empirische Methoden und Befunde vorgestellt, deren Relevanz für forensisch-psychiatrische Fragestellungen diskutiert und ihr mögliches Potenzial für Diagnose, Therapie und Prognose beleuchtet. Zugleich wird auf die Notwendigkeit wissenschaftlicher, ethischer und rechtlicher Standards hingewiesen.

Summary

Progress in neurobiological research has influenced our view of human beings and the basics of their behavior. Regarding criminal law and forensic psychiatry, established codes of practice are being challenged by neuroscientific research. This article gives an overview of neurobiological findings and methods in the context of forensic psychiatric issues. Empirical approaches to addressing important legal questions are outlined. Principles behind forensic psychiatric expert opinions are given. The effect and future of neuroscientific findings and methods in answering forensic psychiatric questions are discussed. Limitations and legal and ethical requirements are addressed.

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Müller, J. Forensische Psychiatrie im Zeitalter der „neuroscience“. Nervenarzt 80, 241–251 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00115-008-2585-0

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