All the talking heads are making comments that make it sound as if it's either PTSD or BPD, why?
I just don't understand why it would be important if Jodi has PTSD as RS claimed it was caused by the HORROR OF MURDERING TRAVIS, not Travis attacking her. Or am I confused and not remembering correctly? Regardless what does it matter if she has PTSD from that day at all, it doesn't change the fact that she killed him. PTSD is just the result from a terrible experience and would be something she suffers post June 4th, 2008. I actually would be happy to know she is somehow haunted by that day, I don't think she is though.
So why would her having PTSD even be relevant? And why are they arguing whether she has PTSD vs BPD. When I heard Dr. D talk about her BPD I thought it hit the nail on the head, I also think it explains why she would premeditate and slaughter Travis.
On the other hand, AGAIN what relevance does her having PTSD have regarding this trial?
It amazes me just how clueless the HLN talking heads are on just about every point. It's irrevelant in the scheme of things whether Arias has PTSD and/or is BPD.
PTSD is very important to the defence. It served two purposes:
1. It enabled Arias to take the stand and purport Travis to be physically abusive, backing up the 'fear for her life' claim on June 4th, while using PTSD (aka 'the fog') as a substitute for taking 'The Fifth' on the murder and clean up, thereby excluding testimony that the prosecution could and would catch her on.
2. PTSD (aka the fog) was also an excuse for the consciousness of guilt phase, and the despicable actions that she took before her arrest. The defence could not be sure, when preparing for trial, just what would be allowed in showing Arias to be the cold blooded killer that she is - imperative that the jury have something to explain away those nasty visions of her sending flowers to her victim's grandmother.
BPD, I think, was not as important to the prosecution.
1. The diagnosis did give the jury a scientific explanation for her bizarre behaviours, and that she was capable of a premeditated killing.
2. Equally important to the prosecution, IMO, was for Dr. DeMarte to discredit Samuels and LaViolette (if indeed they had any credence at that point); to bebunk the defence's false trashing of Travis; and to show Arias as the true antagonist in the relationship.
As for self-defence, I think Arias's testimony wrecked that claim before it even got off the ground. LaViolette merely served to bury it!
Let's roll on to proving premeditation, Juan! That's all that's left to finish Arias off for good. :twocents: