Analysis Of The Insanity Defense

Upon reflection of this entire course, coupled with a consideration of this writer’s own developing knowledge of clinical mental health counseling and art therapy, this writer feels it is imperative to recognize the humanness of every individual, regardless of his or her condition. Therefore, when this writer finds herself in a hypothetical debate with a friend who believes the insanity defense is just a clever way to get around the law, this writer would view this situation as the perfect opportunity to educate this friend and inform him or her about the details of this controversial issue.
In regards to how the legal system of the United States handles crimes committed by individuals who suffer from mental illness, specifically schizophrenia as in the assumed case of Mr. Quincy, it is crucial to consider the important reason why the insanity defense exists, to whom it should apply, and what actually happens with this defense. Ultimately, the way in which a person who suffers from mental illness is treated by the legal system poses fundamental questions of how we, …show more content…
In keeping an optimistic attitude about the legal system of the United States and society at large, this writer believes that as society continues to take into consideration the findings of scientific research about mental illness, appreciation and acceptance of why and when the insanity defense is warranted will follow. As Hansen (2013) so eloquently argued, “we must not lose sight of a recognition that only rarely is the fundamental nature of a person so obscured by illness that their humanness and unique personality are not still the biggest part of their manner” (p. 303). It is this writer’s hope that the citizens of the United States will continue to strive for a justice system that reflects a more humanitarian