These are some of the questions that can be looked into.
1. Are the psychological findings consistent with the alleged report of torture?
2. Are the psychological findings expected or typical reactions to extreme stress within the cultural and
social context of the individual?
3. Given the fluctuating course of trauma-related mental disorders over time, what is the timeframe in
relation to the torture events? Where in the course of recovery is the individual?
4. What are the co-existing stresses impinging on the individual (e.g. ongoing persecution, forced
migration, exile, loss of family and social role)? What impact do these issues have on the individual?
5. What physical conditions contribute to the clinical picture? Pay special attention to head injury
sustained during torture and/or detention.
6. Does the clinical picture suggest a false allegation of torture?
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