Episode Summary: 

In this thought provoking episode, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Jerrod Brown to explore the complex factors contributing to false confessions and wrongful convictions. Dr. Brown, an expert in neurocriminology, offers insights into how various mental and physical health factors-such as untreated nutritional deficiencies and cognitive impairments-impact behavior, decision making, and the reliability of client interviews.  Together, Joseph and Dr. Brown unpack the vulnerabilities that can make certain individuals more susceptible to false confessions, from neurodevelopmental disorders and high levels of suggestibility to external pressures in the interview room.

This episode challenges justice professionals to broaden their perspectives, looking beyond traditional frameworks like risk-needs-responsivity, to embrace a holistic view of client behavior. With practical implications for probation officers, correctional staff, and all who interact with justice-involved individuals, Dr. Brown's insights offer a pathway toward more effective, informed, and compassionate practices in the field.

What You'll Learn:

•  The types and causes of false confessions: Voluntary, Coerced, and Internalized.
• How cognitive impairments, neurodevelopmental disorders, and high suggestibility influence client statements and behaviors.
• The impact of nutritional deficiencies and physical health on mental well being and behavior in justice contexts.
• Practical strategies to improve client interactions, including accommodating neurodevelopmental needs and promoting a sensory friendly environment.
• Why a broader, interdisciplinary approach to justice work is essential for improving outcomes.     

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Neurocriminology Informed Professional Certificate Program

For those interested in deepening their understanding of the brain-behavior connection and its application in justice settings, Dr. Brown's certificate program offers a comprehensive look at neurocriminology's impact on criminal behavior.  Learn more here

• Research paper: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and the Risk-Needs-Responsivity Model. A guide for Criminal Justice and forensic mental health professionals:

Co-Authored by Dr. Brown, and Joseph Arvidson, this paper dives into the complexities of working with clients affected by FASD and how the R-N-R model can be adapted to meet their unique needs. 

Read their paper here! 

• Contact Dr. Jerrod Brown:

Connect with Dr. Brown for more information on neurocriminology, false confession, and training opportunities. 

Dr. Brown's email address

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Key words:

False Confessions, Neurocriminology, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Wrongful Convictions, Risk-Needs-Responsivity, Cognitive Impairments, Nutrition in Criminal Justice, Joseph Arvidson, Dr. Jerrod Brown. 

Credits:

Joseph Arvidson

Dr. Jerrod Brown