competency to stand trial

the capacity to be tried in court as determined by a person’s ability, at the time of trial, to understand and appreciate the criminal proceedings against him or her, to consult with an attorney with a reasonable degree of understanding, and to make and express choices among available options. It is a component of adjudicative competence. See Dusky standard. See also incompetency plea.

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Psychology term of the day

November 27th 2024

sexual tension

a condition of anxiety and restlessness associated with the sex drive and a normal desire for release of sexual energy. Sexual tension may be complicated by fear of inadequate performance, fear of an unwanted pregnancy, fear of discovery, or other concerns.