I applaud the comments of Dr. Lucy J. Puryear regarding the Andrea Yates trial. Dr. Puryear's incisive analysis of the differences between intrapsychic reality and courtroom tactics is most welcome [“Bridging Two Worlds: Consulting in the Yates Trial,” TAP 36/3]. The Yates trial has been a disgrace to the psychiatric and legal professions, but Dr. Puryear is a shining light of humanity. Expert forensic work need not be antithetical to the way psychoanalysts think about human behavior. We must strive to educate jurists and the public on the significance of our work to all aspects of human endeavor. We can take some consolation in knowing that people like Dr. Puryear are not daunted and bring credit to all of us.

Ronald Turco, M.D.

President, The American Academy of Psychoanalysis and Dynamic Psychiatry