Psychosocial Report

What is a Psychosocial Report?

A psychosocial report (also referred to as a psychological examination) is an evaluation of an individual's mental health and social well-being. It assesses self-perception and the individual's ability to function in the community.

The assessment is a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Much of this information is obtained through interviews and the clinician's observations, but review of pertinent records may also be necessary.

Generally, examinations that use scientific methods to evaluate a person’s psychological status are also used; the Mental Status Examination (MSE) is an important standardized tool used in psychosocial assessment. Other examples of tools that may be used include the DSM-5-TR Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure, PTSD Screen, Symptom Checklist-90-Revised, Beck Depression Inventory, and Goldberg Bipolar Screen. The results of the assessment help determine the best treatment plan for the defendant and may provide evidence that the person is low risk to the public.

It is imperative that these assessments be conducted by licensed clinicians with the credentials to present this information to the court. Psychosocial reports aid plea negotiations, inform trial strategy, and may be a significant mitigating factor at sentencing.