How is insanity defined in Canadian criminal law?

In Canadian criminal law, the definition of insanity centers around the concept of mental disorder and its impact on an individual’s capacity to understand their actions. Specifically, insanity is understood as a mental disorder that impedes a person's ability to comprehend the nature and quality of their actions, or to know that their actions are wrong. This understanding is derived from the legal test set out in the Criminal Code, which establishes a defense based on the premise that individuals who cannot grasp the nature of their conduct due to a significant mental disturbance should not be held criminally responsible for their actions.

The other options do not align with the legal definition of insanity. A state of severe emotional distress, while potentially relevant to an individual’s mental health, does not necessarily impact one's understanding of their actions as defined by the law. Similarly, a condition preventing legal representation is not relevant to the insanity defense, as it addresses a different aspect of legal capability. Finally, a psychological evaluation determining fitness for trial is a separate issue concerning whether a defendant is competent to stand trial, rather than an assessment of insanity at the time of the offense. Thus, the correct characterization of insanity focuses on the mental disorder's impact on understanding and moral awareness, which aligns with option B.