"Pleading Guilty by Reason of Insanity Is Just a Way

question 26

Multiple Choice

"Pleading guilty by reason of insanity is just a way for criminals to avoid punishment by feigning mental illness. It is an overused defense." What is the MOST accurate response to this statement?

• A) "Research fully supports this. Up to 40 percent of violent criminals now try to use this defense, and more than half are found not guilty by reason of insanity."
• B) "Insanity pleas are definitely becoming more common. However, most offenders who use this defense are truly ill."
• C) "Insanity pleas are relatively uncommon. Only about 1 percent use this defense, and most are found guilty."
• D) "Insanity pleas aren't allowed in more than 20 states now. You'll be seeing fewer and fewer of these pleas in the future."

---

Definitions:

Schizotypal

Relating to or characterized by a personality disorder that involves acute discomfort in close relationships, cognitive and perceptual distortions, and eccentric behavior.

Histrionic

Relating to a personality disorder marked by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors.

Hysterical Personality Disorder

An outdated term that was once used to describe a pattern of dramatic and attention-seeking behavior, now more accurately referred to as histrionic personality disorder.

Emotionally Charged

Refers to situations, events, or topics that evoke strong emotional responses.