Which of the following can help a judge in deciding the severity of a sentence for an individual diagnosed with a psychological disorder?

• A. The individual's favorite hobbies and leisure activities
• B. The individual's preferred method of transportation
• C. The individual's dietary preferences
• D. A comprehensive psychological evaluation detailing the individual's mental state and risk factors

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: Judges often consider various factors when deciding the severity of a sentence, especially if the individual has a psychological disorder.
2. Identify relevant information: Among the options, only a comprehensive psychological evaluation provides detailed insights into the individual's mental state and potential risk factors, which are crucial for informed sentencing decisions.
3. Recognize why other options are less relevant: Hobbies, transportation methods, and dietary preferences do not provide meaningful information about the individual's psychological condition or risk.
4. Learn the importance of psychological evaluations: These assessments help determine the individual's capacity, risk of reoffending, and need for treatment, which can influence sentencing severity.
5. Conclude that the best aid for a judge is a thorough psychological evaluation rather than unrelated personal preferences.