Expert evidence

Abstract

The diagnosis of "post-traumatic stress disorder" (PTSD) has perhaps influenced and is influenced by the courts more than any other mental disorder. The diagnosis of PTSD and various diagnostic precursors (e.g. "traumatic neurosis") make it clear that an external event can causally cause a mental disorder. This diagnosis and the associated legal issues are increasingly occupying the courts. An often expressed expectation of victims is to receive recognition in the proceedings for suffering and injustice suffered. Careful examination and (differential) diagnosis, including a precise trauma anamnesis, are absolutely necessary. In addition to classifying the complaints in a psychiatric classification system, the functional impairments and their effects on working life and private life must be assessed. The methodology of the assessment, problem areas as well as rated values for the assessment of functional impairments are presented in detail in the chapter.