P045. “Fraudulent Minds”: Exploring the Intersection of Neuroscience and Malingering in Simulated Psychopathology

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Abstract

The term “fraudulent minds” describes individuals who engage in deception, particularly in medical, legal, or forensic settings, to secure personal benefits such as financial compensation or legal exemptions. Malingerers with this mindset often exaggerate symptoms and resist verification processes. This is especially relevant in feigned PTSD cases, where subjective symptoms make simulation easier. One of the reasons behind feigning PTSD is usually financial gain, highlighting the need to distinguish genuine from fraudulent cases accurately. This study examines implicit associations between PTSD symptoms and self-identification by using the Forensic Implicit Association Task (F.I.A.T), a novel psychometric tool. The task assesses the speed and accuracy with which individuals associate PTSD-related stimuli with themselves. Participants include diagnosed PTSD patients and a control group. The control group completed the test twice: first as naïve participants and later after training to simulate symptoms. Throughout the task, physiological peripheral metrics such as heart rate variability (HRV) and electrodermal activity (EDA) are recorded, alongside eye-tracking data. Facial expressions are also analyzed using AFFECTIVA software within the iMotions platform to enhance data reliability for forensic and clinical applications. We anticipate significant differences in implicit associations between genuine PTSD patients and controls, particularly after training. The PTSD group should exhibit faster and stronger associations between PTSD-related stimuli and self-identification. Additionally, physiological responses, such as heightened HRV and EDA, should indicate authentic reactions to trauma cues. Emotional responses, reflected in eye movements and facial expressions, are expected to be more intense and varied in diagnosed PTSD patients. These responses may include subtle signs of distress, anxiety, or sadness. In conclusion, this study aims to provide empirical support for the F.I.A.T’s effectiveness in distinguishing genuine from feigned PTSD symptoms, offering valuable insights into clinical diagnosis and forensic assessments.

Authors

• Gianmarco Tessari, Sapienza - University of Rome

• Aurora Alunni, Sapienza - University of Rome

• Isagaia Ricapito, Sapienza - University of Rome

• Fabiana Rendine Renzi, Sapienza - University of Rome

• Pierandrea Mirino, Sapienza - University of Rome

• Alessandro Quaglieri, Universitas Mercatorum