Brain Tumors and Deviant Behavior: Questions for Forensic Experts

Forensic science is constantly evolving, with new medical discoveries influencing how we understand criminal behaviour. One area of growing interest is the potential impact of brain tumors on cognition, personality, and impulse control. While some studies suggest that brain abnormalities can contribute to behavioural changes, the extent to which they influence criminal actions remains complex and debated.

Forensic experts must assess these developments to ensure that justice is uncompromised. It is crucial to understand if the perpetrator had an internal battle that led to the act. We can then figure out how to avoid tragic incidents in the future for both the agent and the victim. At the same time, forensic examiners must be wary of fake claims manufactured only for defense.

The questions we raise below are starting points for examining these developments. They can equip forensic experts with the knowledge to consider previously unexplored facets of a crime.

Could an Untreated Brain Tumor Trigger Deviant Tendencies?

One concern with brain tumors is that they may take years to start showing symptoms. Meningioma is particularly slow-growing; patients may only sense a problem when the mass is too large. Several people may remain undiagnosed unless they undergo an MRI or have other imaging tests recommended by a doctor.

Studies suggest that brain tumors can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms, including mood changes, apathy, and impaired impulse control. Research published in Nature Neuroscience has linked damage in the prefrontal cortex and corticostriatal circuits to emotional dysregulation and reduced decision-making capacity.

According to the Mayo Clinic, glioblastomas can lead to personality changes, irritability, confusion, and memory problems. In some cases, these cognitive and emotional disruptions may contribute to uncharacteristic behaviours. However, the direct link between brain tumors and criminal actions remains rare and requires careful evaluation.

A well-documented case highlighting this issue is Charles Whitman, the Texas sniper who exhibited severe personality shifts before committing a mass shooting in 1966. His autopsy revealed a brain tumor pressing on his amygdala, a region associated with emotional regulation. While experts debated whether this tumor directly caused his actions, the case remains a key example of forensic and medical overlap.

Definitive evidence linking brain tumors to delinquency comes from a Frontiers 2025 study of a geriatric patient in Switzerland. He started committing criminal offenses like stalking seemingly out of the blue. Initially, experts attributed it to a delusional disorder. However, imaging found glioblastoma in brain regions that regulate emotions and social cognition.

How Can You Isolate Malignant Tumors Among Other Crime Motives?

The true challenge for forensic examiners lies in identifying whether a brain tumor may have directly led to the criminal act. The disease may have exacerbated underlying motives, such as rivalry or envy. It is also possible that the cancer triggered a flood of previously inexperienced and disturbing emotions. The modern healthcare and pharmaceutical situation has made this scenario even murkier. Although more people are now opting for preventive health checks, they may not dig deeper into the products they use for everyday wellness. Can anyone be blamed for unknowingly contracting a life-altering tumor or its consequent effects on others?

For example, some studies have suggested a link between prolonged use of Depo-Provera, a contraceptive injection, and an increased risk of meningiomas. Research published in The British Medical Journal has noted a higher incidence of benign brain tumors among long-term users.  The Depo-Provera lawsuit aims to help affected women receive assistance for medical treatment like radiation therapy.

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The resulting physical and emotional toll can aggravate financial and relationship troubles, heightening the risk of uncharacteristic behavior. Forensic experts must view brain tumors as a potential agent behind an act, but their degree of causation remains debatable. 

On that note, community-focused intervention can mitigate behavioral impact in tumor patients. TorHoerman Law notes that receiving support for the lost quality of life can also help patients feel more in control. In addition to medical assistance, this can include emotional support and counseling.

Who is Responsible for Crimes Committed by Affected People?

It is tricky territory. The foremost question is whether it is fair to punish a perpetrator for a crime they may not have committed willingly. That is, the crime may not have occurred had it not been for the malignant tumor driving the errant behavior. 

However, decisions in such cases are complicated because of the challenge of attributing a specific behavior to the medical condition. It is challenging to quantify the contribution of the disease to crime along with other possible driving forces, like an underlying motive of personal enmity or financial troubles.

A Philosophical Psychology study found that neurological abnormalities often reduce punishment because people perceive a lack of free will. Many liberals and non-religious people feel that crimes committed by such people don’t reflect a conscious decision from their true selves.

At the same time, there have been many cases where people have faked tumors to escape punishment. In 2023, a Colorado social worker faked a diagnosis of glioblastoma to escape an ongoing trial. Many have falsely tried to use an insanity defense to avoid punishment. Indeed, the situation makes crimes more challenging to decipher, adding additional layers of investigation.

Medical and forensic science have always existed in close harmony. Latest developments indicate that the two fields must collaborate to collect more insights into how medical conditions affect criminal behavior. It will also ensure we don’t overlook crucial facets of a case in a rush to conclude forensic examinations.

Disclaimer

“This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. The views expressed are based on available research and do not reflect the official stance of any organization or institution. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for how the information is used.”