An 8 year-old boy in Arizona confessed to planning and murdering his father and a second man, potentially making him the youngest killer in US history. But did the boy really murder these two men? Was it a real confession or was it coerced? What was the motive behind these killings? Can an eight year-old child be fully cognizant of right and wrong, his actions, and their consequences? Can a young boy be evil or be a psychopath? What was going on the boy’s head?
Human Behavior Expert and Clinical Hypnotherapist Patrick Wanis PhD joins the ladies of XM radio’s Broadminded show to explore the cultural, psychological and neurological aspects of this case. Patrick refers to past criminal cases as far back as 1958, where children as young as seven admitted to murder but later where found to have been innocent and/or coerced into the confession. Patrick reveals key elements of the development of the human brain (which doesn’t fully develop until the second decade), its impact on our ability to express empathy and to make judgments. Patrick also explains how the latest brain-imaging reveals key characteristics and differences in the brain of psychopaths who commit hideous crimes but show no remorse or guilt. Finally, Patrick offers advice to parents of children to help teach them right and wrong; and advice to parents of teenagers to assist them in preventing major regrets.
Click below to listen to the interview.
Patrick Wanis, PhD, is a renowned relationship and behavioral expert with over 25 years of experience. Creator of SRTT Therapy (Subconscious Rapid Transformation Technique), he specializes in resolving root causes of trauma and other conditions without reliving pain or retraumatization. He has developed various psychological assessments on emotional intelligence, relationships, self-sabotage, and authenticity, and serves diverse clients from celebrities to teens. A trusted media source, Global media including CNN, BBC, FOX News turn to Wanis for insights into relationships, sexuality, human motivation, trauma, communication, body language, and persuasion.