Der Exzess einer Tugend

Querulous behavior and querulous paranoia are seldom in forensic settings, but produce major problems because of the chronicity and severity of the disorders. Aspects of psychopathology and differential diagnosis are discussed, especially characteristics of volition, of cognition and of behavior control. Regarding criminal responsibility the capacity of understanding the wrongfulness of behavior will usually not be severely impaired. In cases of strong deformation of personality structure with transition into paranoid disorder the capacity for behavior control may be significantly diminished. Irresponsibility will only occur in the rare cases of psychotic disorders. Because of a poor prognosis detention in forensic hospitals may be necessary when threats and manifest aggressive behavior occur.