American Psychology-Law Series – serie

This timely volume provides authoritative, integrated coverage of the developmental science relevant to youth who self-incriminate, with implications for practice and policy.In recent years there has been a surge in empirical research on confessions and pleas in general, and among youth specifically. Reforms have been proposed, and some have been adopted. However, in many ways youth continue to be treated either the same as adults or with well-intended but misguided procedures based on “common sense” rather than robust developmental science. Growing interest in this topic, coupled with a high volume of scholarship that is not yet reflected in policy, makes the time ripe for this book.Chapters in the volume demonstrate that developmental science should be front and center when it comes to confessions and guilty pleas of youth, how the legal contexts surrounding confessions and guilty pleas are fraught with risk for youth overall—but especially for those facing systemic disparities—and that there are ways to improve outcomes for youth suspects and defendants. An international group of renowned experts review research and theory, examine current practice and procedure, and provide suggestions for empirically-based reform. A comprehensive, first-of-its kind work, the book links developmental science with applied scholarship and analysis to help inform practice, and to facilitate the development of empirically supported policy and law that takes appropriate account of the developmental capabilities and limitations of youth suspects and defendants.Intended for researchers, practitioners, and students across a range of fields, including psychology, law, criminal justice, social work, and law enforcement, this book will be a must-read for all who are interested in understanding youth self-incrimination.

A guide to evaluating minors in personal injury cases that describes the relevant legal framework, applicable psychological principles, and pertinent methodology. This clear, comprehensive, and accessible resource provides readers with the essential knowledge and skills they need to become effective personal injury evaluators for cases involving minors. With a lens on the legal landscape, including tort law, legal issues particular to minors, general standards and rules, Jemour Maddux examines psychological principles that are foundational to minor evaluations including developmental psychology, child and adolescent psychopathology, malingering, and psychological responses to pain. Practical chapters offer procedural instructions concerning preparing for the evaluation, determining exam accommodations, conducting the assessment process, integrating culturally sensitive data into analyses, writing reports, and avoiding common ethical pitfalls. Injuries subsequent to child abuse, traumatic brain injury, and other medical injuries are highlighted.