Sleep Violence – Forensic Science Implications: Polygraphic and Video Documentation

Presents 4 case studies of males, aged 16-73 yrs, & reports that sleep-related violence can be associated with a number of diagnosable & treatable sleep disorders. Violence resulting from these disorders may be misinterpreted as purposeful suicide, assault, or even homicide. Sleep-related violence must be added to the list of automatisms. A classification system of both waking & sleep-related behaviour is proposed, with recommendations for assessment of such behaviour. (152 refs.)