Description
Book SynopsisThe Psychology of Death Investigations outlines definitively how behavioral evidence can often provide the necessary components and missing pieces to complement physical evidence as an essential tool for incident reconstruction. In order to determine the direction of an investigation and to prioritize leads, if necessary, death investigators must establish the manner of a death: natural, accident, homicide or suicide. The most overlooked aspect of death investigation is the psychological dimension, which can provide unique leads, correct false assumptions, enhance investigative awareness, and solve cases in surprising ways.
In an estimated 10â20% of cases, the manner of death cannot be determined, or worse, has been erroneously categorized. Since many jurisdictions canât afford behavioral consultants, this book has been written to provide practical information for a basic psychological analysis. If the circumstances surrounding a death are equivocal, psychological consultants can compile information retrospectively about a deceased personâs mental state and possible motive to assist with unravelling ambiguity about the manner of death. This is the primary function of a psychological autopsy, and, as such, this is the first book of its kind dedicated solely to the topic. In the event that the manner of death is determined to be a homicide, behavioral profiling can help to focus the potential pool of suspects.
Professionals and students alike will benefit from the exercise of cognitive awareness and the application of psychological logic presented. Psychologists, medical examiners, coroners, attorneys, fraud examiners, law enforcement personnel, death and homicide investigators, and students enrolled in criminal profiling, forensic psychology, and criminal justice programs will find this text to be a compelling and insightful reference to add to their professional toolkit.
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Victimology and Behavioral Evidence Part 1. Psychological Autopsies 1. History and Concepts 2. The Consulting Suicidologist 3. Suicide Categories, Oddities, and Notes 4. Staging Part 2. Behavioral Profiling 5. History and Purpose 6. Methodology 7. Criminal Analyses 8. Motive and Threat 9. Behavioral Evidence in Court 10. Behavioral Analyses in Perspective
