Infanticide and Filicide: Foundations in Maternal Mental Health Forensics

Maternal filicide, the killing of a child by the mother, is not a new phenomenon, with evidence dating back to 2000 B.C.E. This book explores the case of Andrea Yates, who drowned her five children in 2001, spotlighting postpartum psychosis and the intersection of maternal mental illness and the criminal justice system. It includes expert accounts and practical applications, covering the legal aspects, impact of perinatal psychiatric complications, expert witness role, and sociocultural considerations. The book is an educational and training resource for those involved in maternal infanticide and filicide cases, providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal outcomes, motivations, psychiatric underpinnings, social and global contexts, and advanced understanding from a biopsychosocial perspective. It also highlights the consequences of untreated or poorly treated perinatal mental illness and establishes maternal mental health forensics as a subspecialty field.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 464 pages
\n Publication date: 07 February 2021
\n Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
\n

Maternal filicide, the act of a mother killing her child, is not a recent occurrence. Historical evidence traces back to at least 2000 B.C.E. and the ancient Chaldean civilization, where instances of mothers killing their infants have been documented. This act violates a fundamental rule of nature, disrupting the maternal instinct to protect and ensure the survival of her young.

A notable case that garnered widespread public attention was the Andrea Yates case in 2001. Initially met with shock and outrage, the Yates case also brought to light postpartum psychosis and the intersection of maternal mental illness and the criminal justice system. Coedited by George Parnham, the attorney who successfully defended Yates, this book delves into the narrative of how Parnham first learned about the case and ultimately secured his representation. It features over 30 experts from eight countries, offering valuable insights into the field. Additionally, the book includes a chapter on paternal filicide, a topic that often receives inadequate attention in the literature.

Firmly grounded in research, this comprehensive book provides a thorough description of theory and practical applications. It serves as a valuable resource for professionals involved in maternal mental health forensics, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and lawyers. The book is organized into four sections:

The legal aspects surrounding maternal infanticide and filicide: This section explores the legal implications and considerations associated with these crimes. It examines the legal frameworks, definitions, and penalties related to maternal filicide, as well as the challenges and complexities involved in prosecuting these cases.

The impact of perinatal psychiatric complications in maternal filicide: This section examines the role of perinatal psychiatric complications in maternal filicide. It explores the relationship between mental health issues during pregnancy and childbirth and the potential for these complications to contribute to violent behavior towards children.

The role of the expert witness in infanticide and filicide cases: This section highlights the importance of expert witnesses in infanticide and filicide cases. It discusses the role of psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals in providing testimony and analyzing evidence, as well as the challenges and ethical considerations involved in their work.

Sociocultural considerations and feminist approaches to prevention and treatment: This section explores sociocultural factors that contribute to maternal filicide and feminist approaches to prevention and treatment. It examines the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, the impact of gender inequality on maternal mental health, and the need for gender-responsive interventions and policies.

Each chapter concludes with a summary of key clinical points, making the content accessible and relevant to practitioners in the field.

In conclusion, maternal filicide is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal, psychological, and sociocultural factors that contribute to it. This book offers valuable insights and expertise from a range of professionals, providing a comprehensive resource for those involved in maternal mental health forensics. By addressing these issues, we can work towards preventing maternal filicide and promoting the well-being of both mothers and children.

\n Weight: 748g\n
Dimension: 153 x 230 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781615373512\n \n