Imagine you are forensic psychologist who has been retained by an attorney for the plaintiff in a civil injury case. How would you proceed?

Question

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As a forensic psychologist retained by the attorney for the plaintiff in a civil injury case, the first step would be to evaluate the type and degree of harm suffered by the plaintiff. This would involve conducting a thorough psychological evaluation to assess the impact of the injury on the plaintiff's mental health, functioning, and wellbeing. Once this is determined, it may be necessary to provide expert testimony in court to assist in determining appropriate compensation for damages. While determining whether the plaintiff meets DSM-V criteria for PTSD may be relevant, it is not the primary goal of a forensic evaluation in a civil injury case. Similarly, determining whether the defendant should receive compensatory or punitive damages is not the role of a forensic psychologist, but rather that of the judge or jury. Finally, determining the specific behavior used by the defendant to harm the plaintiff may be relevant in establishing liability, but again is not the primary focus of a forensic psychological evaluation in a civil injury case.

Imagine You Are Forensic Psychologist Who Has Been Retained by an Attorney