O impacto das perícias psicológicas forenses na tomada de decisão judicial, em processos de promoção e proteção de menores

Abstract

Forensic Psychology is been claiming its role in the judicial scene, by an increase in psychological expertise requests. The increasing of media coverage of promotion and protection legal processes, on the other hand, is directly associated with the increase in reports of crimes against children (Ribeiro, 2009), proliferating social awareness and increasing the sense of responsibility in the legal decision-makers. This study aimed to understand the magistrates’ perception about the impact of forensic psychological expertise in the process of judicial decision-making on processes of promotion and protection. The research was conducted by the principles of qualitative methodology, since we intend to access the beliefs, perceptions and expectations of the participants , the sample consisted in 4 magistrates. Data collection took place using a semistructured interview guide. Regarding the content analysis, the study assumed a guidance concerning the assumptions of Grounded Theory, preserving the adequacy of the analysis and interpretation of the collected data. The recognition of the importance attached to the forensic psychological expertises and the recognition of its importance in the course of judicial decision-making process became consensual. Some limitations were pointed, regarding to its probative value, including its possible inconclusiveness and the blurring of the psychologist's role in the judicial act. While forward-looking statements, we safeguard the need for more scientific research in this area in order to enhance its contribution and to tailor the use of psychology in the interests of justice.

Date of Award	11 Feb 2016
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Mariana Barbosa (Supervisor)