Поняття та класифікація психічних розладів у контексті кримінального правосуддя

The scientific article is dedicated to an in-depth examination of one of the most complex and, at the same time, pressing issues in contemporary criminal justice – the classification and legal understanding of mental disorders in the context of criminal liability. The author explores this issue at the intersection of law, psychiatry, and forensic psychology, which ensures an interdisciplinary depth to the research. In the modern context of the humanization of criminal law and legal practice, the importance of adequate assessment of an individual’s mental state is growing. Consequently, the determination of criminal responsibility, the ability to participate in legal proceedings, and the selection of appropriate legal measures depend on the accuracy of such assessments. The article investigates the concept and classification of mental disorders within the framework of criminal justice, taking into account their impact on the determination of guilt and the imposition of punishment. The complexity of the issue arises from the necessity to ensure fairness in cases where the mental state of a suspect or defendant may affect their ability to understand and control their actions. The research methodology includes an analysis of contemporary scientific works, diagnostic criteria, as well as legal norms and precedents regulating the assessment of mental state in criminal proceedings. The article systematizes and classifies mental disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and others, which may affect criminal responsibility – the capacity of a person to fully understand and control their actions. Moreover, the article analyzes various approaches to determining insanity and diminished responsibility across different jurisdictions and their implications for legal consequences. The article clearly formulates the problem: the diversity of terminology regarding mental states in Ukrainian criminal and criminal procedural legislation leads to challenges in legal practice. The author convincingly substantiates the need for unification and harmonization of terms with reference to international classifications. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to assessing mental disorders to ensure equality before the law and the protection of the rights of all participants in the criminal process. It also highlights the necessity for further research to improve legal mechanisms and practices that consider mental disorders in criminal justice.