Discussion: Competency To Stand Trial

Competency to Stand Trial is the assessment of an individual’s present state of mind—the time at which he or she must stand trial. Depending on the jurisdiction, evaluation by a forensic psychologist or other qualified professional is necessary to determine if a person is competent to stand trial. It is essential to know what a competency evaluation entails, because this information is directly relevant to the psycholegal assessment questions on the comprehensive exam.

In a minimum of 300 words, respond to the following:

• Identify and discuss the issues raised in a competency hearing.
• Clarify which types of disorders can render an offender not competent to stand trial.
• Identify and describe at least three assessment instruments that are specifically used to determine an individual’s competency.

Discuss at least three other psychological tests that would be used as part of a competency evaluation, such as tests to assess personality, intellect, and/or malingering. State why these other tests are needed as part of an overall competency evaluation.

Your responses should rely upon at least three scholarly resources from the professional literature that are cited in APA format. The literature may include the Argosy University online library resources; relevant textbooks; peer-reviewed journal articles; and websites created by professional organizations, agencies, or institutions (.edu and .gov).