The Mind of a Killer. How the Brains of Those Who Commit Crimes Work

Forensic psychiatrists are a small group of doctors whose main task is to determine the motives of a person in custody and to establish why a crime was committed. Working in this field requires strong nerves, a good stomach, an understanding of legal and psychiatric language, and the ability to look into the abyss without flinching when faced with a true monster at its depths.

To understand what kind of person is sitting in front of them, a forensic psychiatrist typically asks a variety of questions: about their family, their job, or their new interests. 

- Why do people kill? 
- Where should a person in custody be placed: in a psychiatric hospital or in prison? 
- Is he insane or guilty? 
- What was he like before committing the crime?
- If he is sick, are there chances for recovery?

Richard Taylor explains how forensic psychiatric examinations and evaluations are conducted for individuals who have committed serious crimes and are preparing for release. His book is a collection of cases from his practice, including high-profile cases, and reflections on the nature of the human psyche.