“Children, Brain Development and the Criminal Law”

A few years ago, the golden phrase constantly cheered was to “close the gap between forensic psychology and the law” since so much research could be useful to the legal profession. Though neuroscience may replace forensic pysch in the phrase these days, the gap is as wide as it ever was. If communication between the professions is improving, shouldn’t it be reflected in policy? 

The idea is:

…to see better communication between neuroscientists, clinicians and lawyers so that research findings like these lead to changes in the legal system. “There is a big gap between research conducted by neuroscientists and the realities of the day to day work of the justice system,” [Prof. Williams] said. “Although criminal behaviour results from a complex interplay of a host of factors, neuroscientists and clinicians are identifying key risk factors that — if addressed — could reduce crime. Investment in earlier, focussed interventions may offset the costs of years of custody and social violence.” [via] [img]