Emotional Damages Episode 12 Recap: Brain, Behavior, and the Law—Dr. Michelle Ward on Psychopathy, Science, and Real-World Forensic Consulting
In this episode of Emotional Damages, Dr. Mark Levy interviews Dr. Michelle Ward—neuroscientist, forensic psychologist, and host of Investigation Discovery’s “Mind of a Murderer” and the hit podcast “Look Who’s Stalking.” Dr. Ward shares candid stories from her pioneering research and courtroom consulting, revealing how science, genetics, and lived experience shape our evolving understanding of criminal behavior and risk.
What You’ll Learn:
- Brain Imaging and Psychopathy
Dr. Ward describes her early landmark work using MRI scans to compare the brains of murderers and non-murderers—one of the first studies to reveal structural differences that may underlie psychopathic or violent behavior. She discusses how this research changed the field and offers practical insight for attorneys using (or challenging) neuroscience in litigation.
- Genetics, Environment, and Risk
Drawing from the Southern California Twin Project and her ongoing consulting, Dr. Ward explains how both inherited and environmental factors interact in shaping violence risk. Her experience highlights why risk is rarely “nature or nurture,” but almost always a blend of both.
- Profiling and Predicting Future Behavior
Dr. Ward explores the ethical and scientific limits of using neuroscience and behavioral markers to forecast which individuals may become predatory offenders. She cautions against the oversimplification and sensationalism sometimes present in the media, sharing stories from both scientific research and her documentary work.
- Forensic Consulting and Testimony
With first-hand experience consulting for law enforcement and participating in high-profile trials, Dr. Ward sheds light on how attorneys can best leverage scientific and psychological evidence in court—and avoid common mistakes in cross-examination or expert selection.
- The Human Side of Crime Science
Beyond the data, Dr. Ward discusses the emotional and practical realities of interviewing dangerous offenders, unraveling profiles for media, and helping families, juries, and the public understand what makes some people tick—and others snap.
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