Forensic Psychiatry (Non-Clinical Elective)

4 units

The medical student will learn many aspects of forensic psychiatry including criminal competency, the insanity defense, civil litigation, workman's compensation, malpractice, civil commitment, and guardianship. The rotation is primarily self-directed through selected readings, but the student will have opportunities to observe and participate in forensic evaluations depending on faculty availability. The student will meet with the Course Director a minimum of two hours per week to discuss readings and case law. They will also shadow at the St. Louis Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center, a nearby forensic hospital, as well as observed the Sexually Violent Predator unit in Farmington, Missouri. The student will also be assigned readings of landmark cases, textbooks, psychiatric expert opinions, and attend civil hearings. There may be the opportunity to witness sexually violent predator evaluations and/or treatment. The student will be required to write a forensic report based on an evaluation during the rotation or using materials from a previously pre-recorded evaluation. The objectives will be measured by attendance and by formal evaluation of the student's participation and knowledge during the supervision discussion. It will also be determined by the thoroughness and quality of their written forensic report.