New Books in Psychology Edward L. Jones III, "Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder: What Really Killed the Crespi Twins?" (Rowman & Littlefield, 2025)
May 6, 2025
Edward L. Jones III, author of *Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder*, dives into the tragic story of the Crespi family. He discusses the complex interplay between mental health and pharmaceuticals, highlighting how SSRIs might have influenced violent behavior. The conversation raises awareness about the stigma surrounding mental illness and the need for informed consent in treatment. Jones shares Kim Crespi's journey of trauma and forgiveness, while also calling for better mental health care and understanding amidst personal and societal challenges.
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Debunking Chemical Imbalance Myth
- There is no scientific evidence that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.
- SSRI antidepressants are no more effective than a placebo for alleviating depression symptoms.
David Crespi's Tragic Act
- David Crespi, while playing hide-and-seek with his five-year-old twin daughters, fatally stabbed them both within minutes after his wife left for a haircut.
- After the murders, he calmly called 9-1-1 and confessed to killing his daughters while mentioning he was on antidepressants.
Exercise Caution with SSRIs in Youth
- SSRIs can be particularly dangerous for children and adolescents, especially regarding risks of suicide and violence.
- Be aware that despite known risks, antidepressant prescriptions for youth have significantly increased.