Ruby Yin

Bias and the Legal Interpretation of Neurobiological Evidence in BPD-Related Criminal Cases

Started June 16, 2025

Abstract or project description

This research project will look deeply into the complex relationships between bias and legal interpretation of neurobiological evidence in criminal cases involving Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). As neuroscience and genetic evidence become increasingly used in courtrooms, particularly to inform assessments of mental capacity and if they are to blame, biases among judges and jurors are a critical area of concern. The biological framing of BPD and other mental illnesses can reduce blame while simultaneously amplifying perceptions of dangerousness and untreatability of the disorder, resulting in both stigma-reducing and stigma-enhancing effects that may influence verdicts and sentencing negatively. Furthermore, the very act of labeling a defendant with BPD can add prejudice to the case, as jurors and legal professionals often rely on their existing beliefs and prejudices, which raises questions of criminal responsibility and mitigation. I want my project to analyze how these biases shape legal outcomes, explore the double-edged nature of neurobiological explanations, and suggest ways for improving the fairness and accuracy of legal proceedings involving defendants with BPD, as well as raise awareness and reduce bias for BPD.