ABC Radio
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
The mind of a murderer
The mind of a murderer
The mind of a murderer
Saturday 17th April 2021
Dr Richard Taylor shares insights into forensic psychiatry and the complex minds of murderers. Understand the 'why' behind violent crimes.
29 minutes
Informative
Eye-opening
Honest
Compassionate
Educational
About this podcast
Author:
ABC Radio
Overview:
Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
493 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Inside the Mind: A Forensic Psychiatrist's View on Murder
Episode Overview
- Understanding 'why' is crucial in forensic psychiatry.
- Psychotic homicides make up a significant portion of Dr Taylor's work.
- Mental disorders play a role in some violent crimes.
- Empathy and personal experiences influence psychiatric assessments.
- There are gaps in mental health services that need addressing.
The biggest group of murders is young men killing other young men... that's more of a social problem.
Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a murderer? Forensic psychiatrist Dr Richard Taylor shares his experiences from assessing over a hundred accused killers. From self-inflicted wounds to tragic family cases, Dr Taylor offers a gripping look into the complexities of forensic psychiatry. He explains how understanding the 'why' behind a crime can influence court outcomes, especially when mental health issues are involved.
You'll hear about cases like Jonathan Brooks, whose psychotic episode led to the murder of his mother, and Lee Watson, whose rage-based homicide reveals disturbing psychopathic traits. Dr Taylor's insights challenge common perceptions, highlighting that not all homicides are straightforward or easily categorised. This episode is heavy yet fascinating, offering a peek into the darker aspects of human behaviour and the role of mental health in violent crimes.
As Dr Taylor emphasises, understanding these tragic stories doesn't condone the acts but helps us grasp human nature better. It's a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health services and the gaps that still exist. So, what can we learn from these chilling tales? And how can society better support those with severe mental illnesses before it's too late?