Are psychologists that are paid for their expert testimony in a trial looked down on by the other members of the profession, or does this only happen on Law and Order? lol I watch a lot of Law and Order, and I see that they call on the same Psychologists to evaluate the criminals each time during the trial. I'm sure they aren't doing it for free.... What about when the defense calls upon one that will tell them what they want to hear to suit their own purposes? For instance, with some mental affliction that has never been proven or well researched on, that the defense has found somewhere in some old dusty Psychology book, and want to use it as an excuse for their clients behavior. In order to prove that their client actually has this, they would need someone in the Psych profession to back them up. I know that my Psych Professor said she has done this for the Prosecuter, but I don't believe she was paid. If they are paid for it, isn't this unethical?
2006-10-09 07:49:50 · 5 answers · asked by LibraT 4 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
I have always hoped to hear the opposing attorney ask an expert witness the following question: Doctor.... can you, as a mental health expert, please tell us what the difference between the brain and the MIND is?
And when the "expert" cannot answer the question, what use is this expert?
To assume those psychologists who charge high rates for talking to people about what they, the psychologists, have no knowledge would be bothered by ethics or honesty is like expecting a used car salesman will never sell you a bad car.
Peace
2006-10-09 08:01:11 · answer #1 · answered by docjp 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
physicians are not allowed to discuss their patients care. in some cases subpoenaed. so prosecution and defense alike utilize expert testimony. it is not unethical to be paid for your expertise. it IS unethical to be swayed in either direction by money. i think the prosecution/defense will pick the provider that suits their needs the best. like coroners, there are few that will testify in court if they did not examine the patient. does the medical community look down on them? i think so. especially if they are grasping at straws for excuses for the criminal's behavior. its just not right.
2006-10-09 15:05:08 · answer #2 · answered by deathwishpussy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think alot of ppl might look down on them but thats only sum
2006-10-09 14:57:10 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
yeah they are
2006-10-09 14:52:24 · answer #4 · answered by chickennoodle 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
guess so
2006-10-09 14:57:03 · answer #5 · answered by SGBoy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋