The Integration of Clinical Insight and Legal Frameworks in Forensic Practice: Analyses of a case series

• In Event: Procedural and Courtroom Dynamics and the Sentencing Process 1

Abstract

The study explores the complex interrelations between psychological conditions, memory conformity, eyewitness testimony, and the impact of psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, within the context of legal proceedings. EMDR was hypotized to interfere with memory recall, potentially affecting testimony accuracy. Through an analysis of multiple legal processes, we assessed whether this influence was significant. Our findings indicate that while EMDR can play a role in memory reconstruction, its impact is not as detrimental as initially hypotized. This research highlights the importance of balancing therapeutic interventions with legal standards, advocating for clearer guidelines on their forensic implications.

Authors

• marta ballabio, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano (MI)

• Federico Pacchioni, Vita-Salute S. Raffaele University

• Emma Flutti, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele

• veronica ziliani, ziliani.veronica@hsr.it