Assignment 2: LASA: Research Proposal Project

Selected Study:

Robbins, E., Waters, J., & Herbert, P. (1997). Competency to stand trial evaluations: A study of actual practice in two states. Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online, 25(4), 469-483.

Discussion

The research related to forensic psychology identified intends to evaluate an individuals’ competency to stand trial. This study identified the practice in two states as concerned stakeholders struggle to safeguard the fundamental right to a free and fair trial. The study question is based on a defendant’s ability to assist in their own defense. The main reason for conducting this study is mainly because over the years a number of inadequacies concerning the strength of forensic reports (Robbins, Waters, & Herbert, 1997). The reports have been accused of being irrelevant, insufficient and generally invading the province of the judge.

For there to be notable development in the forensic assessment, it is vital that mental health professionals respond to the criticism. This case study research design looked at a total of 66 CST reports which were conducted within the jurisdiction of two states in America in order to come up with an ideal model to general CST assessment. The results indicated that although some of the reports had the required legal relevance, the lack of thoroughness and invalid information in some reports needed attention. At the end of the day, it is evident that there is an immediate need to come up with a standardized method of conducting and presenting CST evaluations in order to generally improve their quality.

Dealing with unfamiliar population can be cause a massive roadblock in the research proceedings, therefore, understanding the features of the group, the recruitment techniques applied and the subject of interest will enable one familiarize themselves with the population hence expanding their knowledge of the group. There was no deception in this given study and I believe the study does not require any deception because the matter under investigation is very important as it is the basis for either freedom or serving time in prison.

Ensuring the research is done in an ethical manner is important in the success of any study. The creation of an oversight system, researcher education and the adoption of research designs that protect the participants should be done (Gottfried, Hudson, Vitacco, & Carbonell, 2017). Although case studies are faced with disadvantages such as selection bias, observation bias of given information, and the fact that calculations are impossible, this research was done in accordance with the ethical and legal specifications, and therefore, I would not change anything.

References

Gottfried, E. D., Hudson, B. L., Vitacco, M. J., & Carbonell, J. L. (2017). Improving the detection of feigned knowledge deficits in defendants adjudicated incompetent to stand trial. Assessment, 24(2), 232-243.

Robbins, E., Waters, J., & Herbert, P. (1997). Competency to stand trial evaluations: A study of actual practice in two states. Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online, 25(4), 469-483.