Questions and Answers
What was the defense used to justify the lenient sentence for Ethan Couch?
The defense used the term 'affluenza' to describe a condition of being unable to understand the consequences of one's behavior due to wealth.
What is the difference between the 'affluenza' defense and a substance use disorder defense?
Unlike substance use disorders, 'affluenza' is not recognized in the DSM and is not a medically recognized condition.
What does the defense psychologist argue as the cause of Ethan Couch's behavior?
The defense psychologist argued that Ethan Couch's behavior was the result of being raised with wealth and having no understanding of consequences due to never facing punishment.
How did the 'affluenza' defense differ from the typical 'my disease of alcoholism/addiction made me do it' defense?
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What example did the psychologist give to illustrate Ethan Couch's lack of consequences?
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Study Notes
Affluenza Defense
- The 'affluenza' defense was used to justify the lenient sentence for Ethan Couch, arguing that his wealthy upbringing prevented him from understanding the consequences of his actions.
- Unlike a substance use disorder defense, the 'affluenza' defense focuses on the effects of privilege and entitlement rather than addiction.
Cause of Ethan Couch's Behavior
- According to the defense psychologist, Ethan Couch's behavior was caused by his lack of boundaries and consequences in his life, resulting from his wealthy upbringing.
Difference from Typical Defense
- The 'affluenza' defense differs from the typical 'my disease of alcoholism/addiction made me do it' defense, as it emphasizes the role of privilege in shaping behavior rather than addiction.
Illustrating Lack of Consequences
- The psychologist gave the example of Ethan Couch's father never punishing him for taking a beer from the fridge, illustrating how he was never held accountable for his actions and therefore never learned to understand consequences.
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Description
"Affluenza" Case Quiz: Test your knowledge on the controversial Texas "affluenza" case and its implications for addiction, drug policy, and personal responsibility. Delve into the debate surrounding disease, excuse for bad behavior, and the legal implications of the case.
