What was a primary outcome from R v. Parks (1992) concerning sleepwalking?

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In R v. Parks (1992), the primary outcome concerning sleepwalking highlighted that it can be classified as a state where the individual is not in full control of their actions. This case established that sleepwalking is not simply normal behavior but can be recognized as a phenomenon that may lead to actions outside of conscious control, impacting the individual's accountability under the law.

The judgment in this case emphasized that if a person commits an act while sleepwalking, they may be found not guilty due to the lack of consciousness and intent required to establish criminal liability. This aspect underlines the understanding of the condition as a complex behavior that does not align with the typical notions of criminal culpability.

It's important to recognize that sleepwalking is not considered a disease of the mind in the same way as other mental disorders that may fall under the insanity defense. It is not classified as punishable behavior, as the law differentiates between voluntary and involuntary actions. Therefore, the option that sleepwalking is normal behavior in certain individuals aligns with the court's recognition of the phenomenon, albeit in a specific context related to criminal responsibility.

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