ABSTRACT
Malingering can be defined as pretending to be ill or otherwise incapacitated. Malingering is deliberately exaggerating symptoms for personal gain. Included in the concept of secondary gain is the fact that occasionally patients can subconsciously be focusing on secondary gain. Based on the psychologist's report, the court concluded that Harris was competent to stand trial and the case proceeded to trial before a jury. Thus, the Court of Appeals concluded that the psychologist's testimony necessarily related to Harris' knowledge of his guilt and his credibility. The symptom most often exaggerated, is pain. A slight discomfort in walking may become excruciating pain leading to inability to walk or to limping while walking. Dizziness or vertigo is a symptom commonly feigned by those who attempt to malinger. Noncompliance is a straightforward, relatively easy thing to prove. Noncompliance is almost always documented. The patient could be noncompliant with diet or smoking. These issues are always charted or documented by a clinician.
