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International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
Politics
Christian Nogot Puno

Can Doctors Diagnose Donald Trump From Video Clips? The Goldwater Rule and the $75,000 Libel Case Behind It

Bandy Lee and John Garrison have publicly assessed the president's health since 20 September, though neither has examined him (Credit: Official White House Photo)

Psychiatrists in the American Psychiatric Association (APA) may not give a professional opinion on Donald Trump's mental health from video clips. Their ethics code's Goldwater Rule requires an examination and permission before any such opinion. The American Medical Association advises all doctors in the media against diagnosing unexamined public figures.

The rule grew out of a 1964 survey on Senator Barry Goldwater, who sued for libel and won $75,000 (about £56,000) in punitive damages. On 20 September, psychiatrist Bandy Lee called parts of Trump's conduct pathological. Psychologist John Paul Garrison argues on YouTube that footage may show neurological problems. Neither has examined him.

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