If you are a fan of the television show “CSI” or have any familiarity with the character Agent Starling, you probably have a general understanding of the function that forensic psychology serves. In point of fact, there is more to the discipline than just analyzing murder scenes and developing profiles of serial killers. Although the job of a forensic psychology specialist might not be exactly as glamorous as it is depicted on TV, those who work in the field can have careers that are both intriguing and difficult.
On television, forensic psychologists frequently contribute their knowledge to investigations and profile criminals. However, practitioners in the field of forensic psychology can also.
Do work at correctional facilities and forensic hospitals. Evaluations of the inmates are carried out by trained professionals that work in this setting. They decide whether or not a person has the mental capacity to go to trial and whether or not that person is eligible to enter a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. In addition to this, they assist in determining if a certain individual is too dangerous to be set free.
Act as a consultant for cases involving child and domestic violence. Professionals in the field of forensic psychology also offer counseling and evaluation services to victims in cases involving rape and abuse. In this field, the practitioner’s job may consist of determining if a witness or victim is telling the truth, or they may be asked to assess the emotional trauma that has been caused to victims.
Offer your expertise concerning the selection of jurors. Not all practitioners in the field of forensic psychology work directly with crime victims or individuals accused of committing crimes. Psychologists are frequently retained by legal counsel to provide advice regarding the selection of juries and to facilitate focus groups designed to evaluate the degree to which their clients are persuaded by their arguments.
Contribute to the handling of civil cases. Forensic psychology practitioners have found a place in the personal injury and class action lawsuit industries, which caters to those individuals who would rather not work in the criminal justice system. Forensic psychologists are able to evaluate witness statements in these types of high-stakes situations. In some instances, these medical professionals have other areas of expertise in which they specialize.
Give advice to troubled teenagers. Working with children and adolescents who are raised in dangerous environments can be extremely rewarding work for a practitioner in the field of forensic psychology. Intervention at an early stage can help avoid criminal behavior in the future.
