Danny Cevallos : The world condemned 16-year - old Texan for defense 's use of ` ` affluenza '' Affluenza is a term used by the psychologist testifying for Couch at the disposition phase of the case , to describe children who have a sense of entitlement , are irresponsible , and make excuses for poor behavior because parents have not set proper boundaries . He says many objected to the sentence handed out by defense for DUI manslaughter . Cevallos says defense was n't using ` ` affluenza '' to deny guilt but to help influence justice . He says ` ` affluenza '' was poor choice of words but refers to a common source of guidance .
Danny Cevallos : The world condemned 16-year - old Texan for defense 's use of ` ` affluenza '' He says many objected to the sentence handed out by defense for DUI manslaughter . Cevallos says defense was n't using ` ` affluenza '' to deny guilt but to help influence justice . He says ` ` affluenza '' was poor choice of words but refers to a common source of guidance .