Doctoral-Level Practitioner’s Views and Opinions Regarding the Use of Social Networking Sites in Criminal Responsibility Evaluations

According to the Pew Research Center, there has been an increase in social networking site (SNS) usage by 72% since 2011. Due to the rise, researchers have undertaken studies on using the internet and SNS-based data with forensic assessments. However, researchers have not explored the views and opinions of professionals who conduct these evaluations, specifically regarding doctoral-level practitioners and criminal responsibility. Due to this, the American Psychological Association (APA) does not have specific guidelines on using SNS as a collateral source. This study involved one-on-one interviews with seven doctoral-level practitioners who conduct criminal responsibility evaluations on individuals 18 and older and use SNS as a collateral source. The participants were asked seven interview questions about years in practice, SNS, collaterals, Goffman's dramaturgy theory, APA, and overall views and opinions. The data was transcribed and run through NVivo for thematic analysis. The range of experience was 4-40 years. Some participants reported seeking out SNS information, while others reported obtaining SNS data through attorneys or investigators. Participants reported there is a potential to see mental health symptoms on SNS; however, they lack trust in SNS data due to impression management. Participants reported other collateral sources tend to be more credible. Participants suggested the APA focus on informed consent guidelines and guidance on each platform. Understanding these views and opinions can assist in positive social change through developing future policies, recommendations, practices, education, and training.