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SAGE Journal User Guide

Plumm, K. M. and Terrance, C. A. (February 2009). Battered Women Who Kill: The Impact of Expert Testimony and Empathy Induction in the Courtroom. Violence Against Women 15(2), 186-205.

http://vaw.sagepub.com/content/15/2/186.full.pdf+html

Mock jurors viewed a simulated trial involving a woman, charged with the murder of her abusive husband, entering a plea of not guilty by reason of self-defense. Expert testimony was varied using battered woman syndrome, social agency framework, or no expert testimony. Within expert testimony conditions, jurors were presented with opening and closing statements either including or not including instructions aimed at inducing empathy. Results indicate differences in gender and expert testimony for ratings of guilt as well as differences in gender, expert testimony, and empathy induction for perceptions of the defendant.

1. What is learned helplessness?
2. Who are the individuals who are more likely to suffer from battered woman syndrome?

Learning objective(s): Define battered woman syndrome

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Ferraro, K. J.  (January 2003). The Words Change. But the Melody Lingers. Violence Against Women, 9(1), 110-129.

http://vaw.sagepub.com/content/9/1/110.full.pdf+html

In this article, specific cases are discussed in which the characteristics described in the syndrome are contrasted with the assertiveness, strength, and strategic decision making expressed by female defendants who had been battered. The negative consequences of the persistence of the battered woman syndrome in court are also described..

1. What is the mythical stereotype identified by the author?
2. What is syndrome language?

Learning Objective(s): Define battered woman syndrome