Citation

Yoshikawa K, Fukui H, Noda T, Yoshizumi M, Matsumoto T, Okada T. Acta Criminol. Med. Leg. Jpn. 2006; 72(4): 105-119.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Japanese Association of Criminology)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

We experienced a psychiatric testimony case of matricide by Asperger syndrome caused by a brain tumor in the early childhood. Both of amygdala were severely damaged by the occupation of the tumor and the surgery and radiation therapy which followed. As a result of this, he showed several symptoms of Asperger syndrome, and in later adolescence when he faced the psychological difficulties with his mother, he attempted choking his mother and tried to commit suicide twice and finally beat her to death. A lot of evidences including neuroimages and psychological tests suggest that his aggression may be caused by damage of amygdala. This case reminds us to reconsider criminal responsibility concerning Asperger syndrome.

Language: ja

Keywords

Asperger syndrome; Matricide; Brain tumor