Psychological Testimony during the Amnesty Application of Jeffrey Theodore Benzien

Abstract

<jats:p> This paper provides an analysis of the psychological testimony in an amnesty application to the TRC based on the court record. Arguing that PTSD and its diagnostic criteria has become so well known that the DSTMIV caution regarding malingering and benefit eligibility should be given greater weight during psychological testimony than has occurred. Especially where potential beneficiaries of testimony have repeatedly perjured themselves even greater caution should be exercised rather than unequivocally endorsing their truthfulness as in the case of Mr Benzien. </jats:p>