Define And Explain The Neurocognitive Disorder Exemplified I

Define and explain the neurocognitive disorder exemplified in the interactive media program “Neurocognitive Disorders: A Case Study†based on the “ DSM-5 †and the scholarly articles found in this week’s Learning Resources

Neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) are characterized by significant decline in cognitive functions such as memory, executive functioning, attention, and reasoning, often resulting from brain damage or neurological disease. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), these disorders encompass a range of conditions, from mild cognitive impairment to severe neurocognitive decline associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other neurological impairments (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The interactive media case study exemplifies such a disorder, highlighting the impact of brain deficits on behavior, decision-making, and impulse control, which can subsequently influence criminal behavior.

Neurocognitive disorders often stem from brain injuries or neurodegenerative processes that impair functioning within critical brain regions, especially the frontal lobes. These regions govern impulse regulation, planning, social judgment, and emotional regulation (Walden University, LLC, 2022). When these areas are compromised, individuals may exhibit violent tendencies, poor decision-making, or emotional dysregulation—symptoms consistent with the clinical presentation described in the case study. For example, individuals with TBI frequently present with impulsivity and aggression, and these behaviors increase the risk of criminal activities (Williams et al., 2018).

The case of an 8-year-old diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) reflects early neurocognitive disruptions, often linked with underlying brain dysfunctions. Children with neurocognitive deficits may display rage when challenged, exhibit violent episodes, and have difficulty regulating emotions, which often results in behavioral issues at school and in the community. Such behaviors are frequently associated with traumatic brain injuries acquired due to falls, assaults, or accidents, which can cause structural and functional damage to the brain (Williams et al., 2018).

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), a common cause of neurocognitive disorder, is particularly impactful in children and young adults. The injury typically involves a blow to the head resulting from accidents, falls, or violence, leading to damage in the frontal lobes, which are crucial for impulse control, judgment, and emotional regulation. The consequences include emotional dysregulation, social difficulties, impulsivity, and increased likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior (Williams et al., 2018). Notably, TBI can impair memory, attention, and decision-making, further exacerbating behavioral problems that may lead to criminal acts, especially when compounded with childhood trauma such as abuse or neglect (Walden University, LLC, 2022).

How and why symptoms of neurocognitive disorders contribute to criminal behavior

Symptoms associated with neurocognitive disorders can significantly contribute to criminal behavior, particularly when they impair an individual's ability to regulate impulses, process social cues, or plan appropriately. For example, individuals with TBI often experience impulsivity, aggression, and poor judgment, which increase the likelihood of violent acts or criminal conduct (Williams et al., 2018). A disrupted executive functioning capacity impairs decision-making, making individuals more prone to acting on immediate urges without considering consequences (Rohling & Rohling, 2014).

Children and adults with neurocognitive disorders often exhibit behavioral changes that lead to offending. Evidence suggests that offenders with a history of TBI are overrepresented in criminal justice populations, with studies indicating that approximately 65% of adult prisoners have experienced TBI, with higher rates in female inmates (Williams et al., 2018). For instance, childhood exposure to violence and trauma can result in learned aggression, emotional dysregulation, and poor impulse control, which persist into adulthood and increase criminal risk. These deficits hinder the ability to regroup after stress or crises, often resulting in violent outbursts or criminal acts (Walden University, LLC, 2022).

Forensic psychological implications of neurocognitive disorder

The forensic psychological implications of neurocognitive disorders are profound, especially if mental health professionals lack sufficient training or awareness about these conditions. Misdiagnosis or oversight can lead to inadequate assessments of offenders' mental states, potentially resulting in unjust legal consequences or insufficient treatment interventions (Walden University, LLC, 2022). Recognizing neurocognitive symptoms such as impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and social withdrawal is crucial for determining criminal responsibility and tailoring appropriate rehabilitative strategies.

Professionals working within the criminal justice system must be fully informed about the neuropsychological aspects of these disorders to avoid misinterpreting behaviors. For example, violent acts committed by individuals with undiagnosed neurocognitive impairments might be wrongly viewed as deliberate or malice-driven, when they are actually manifestations of neurological dysfunction. Thus, integrating neuropsychological assessments into forensic evaluations enhances the accuracy of offenders' diagnoses and ensures that they receive suitable treatment, potentially reducing recidivism (Williams et al., 2018).

Furthermore, understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of criminal behavior supports the development of specialized intervention programs that address impulse control, emotional regulation, and social skills. Forensic psychologists can utilize this knowledge to advocate for appropriate sentencing, treatment plans, and risk management strategies, ultimately contributing to more just and effective criminal justice processes (Rohling & Rohling, 2014).

Conclusion

Neurocognitive disorders profoundly influence behavior, often increasing the propensity for criminal acts due to deficits in impulse regulation, decision-making, and emotional control. Traumatic brain injuries and developmental neurocognitive impairments can impair critical brain regions, notably the frontal lobes, leading to behaviors that challenge societal norms and legal standards. The forensic implications underscore the importance of specialized assessment and treatment by trained professionals, emphasizing the need for awareness and understanding of these complex neurological conditions. Recognizing the neurobiological roots of such behaviors can foster more accurate legal determinations and effective rehabilitative interventions, ultimately reducing criminal recidivism and improving offender outcomes.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Walden University, LLC. (2022). Neurocognitive disorders: A case study. Walden University Blackboard.
• Williams, W. H., Chitsabesan, P., Fazel, S., McMillan, T., Hughes, N., Parsonage, M., & Tonks, J. (2018). Traumatic brain injury: A potential cause of violent crime? The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(10), 836–844.
• Rohling, M. L., & Rohling, M. (2014). The neuropsychology of criminal behavior: An integrating approach. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 59(4), 972-978.
• Bigler, E. D. (2013). Traumatic brain injury. In S. J. Goldstein & J. M. Goldstein (Eds.), Forensic neuropsychology (pp. 109-124). Oxford University Press.
• Lezak, M. D., Howieson, D. B., & Loring, D. W. (2012). Neuropsychological assessment. Oxford University Press.
• Corrigan, J. D., & Hammond, F. M. (2013). Traumatic brain injury as a risk factor for violence. Journal of Neurotrauma, 30(1), 1-8.
• McCrory, P., Meeuwisse, W., Aubry, M., Cantu, B., Dvořák, J., Echemendía, R. J., ... & Vos, P. (2017). Consensus statement on concussion in sport—the 5th international conference on concussion in sport held in Berlin, October 2016. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 51(11), 838-847.
• Filley, C. M., & Ryan, L. (2014). Neurobehavioral and neuropsychological effects of traumatic brain injury. In J. J. Borchert & S. K. Makki (Eds.), Neuropsychiatry of traumatic brain injury (pp. 177–195). Springer.