How to Apply Psychology to Forensic Practice

Applying psychology, a complex discipline that engages in the study of the mind, to forensics, another complex discipline that looks at legal issues through the lens of the sciences, often with the distinct purpose of determining a defendant's culpability, is an intricate process to say the least. An entire branch of psychology, forensics psychology, is devoted to this express purpose. In the context of forensic science, psychology looks at the motivation, social context and mental stability of a possible offender. Forensic psychologists work closely with forensic science personnel to bring psychology to the forensic discipline.

Instructions

  1. Forensic Psychology and Offenders

    • 1

      Assess and analyze a crime from the perspective of the suspect. Apply theories of abnormal psychology to this analysis. Consider motivation as it relates to possible psychological abnormalities and conditions in the suspect.

    • 2

      Consider contextual influence on the suspect. Apply this contextual analysis to the possible motivation of the suspect. Analyze family context particularly when investigating juvenile suspects.

    • 3

      Assess the risk of a suspect once he has been analyzed thoroughly and the motivation, psychological factors and contextual factors have been thoroughly investigated. Prepare a prediction regarding this suspect that will help prevent future offense and serve as a device for the management of this suspect.

    Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice Personnel

    • 4

      Train criminal justice personnel in the areas of psychology that pertain to suspect analysis. Introduce concepts of abnormal psychology and the analysis of contextual and environmental factors that affect suspects. Demonstrate effective suspect and justice personnel interactions to help criminal justice personnel prevent negative, unproductive or violent exchanges with suspects.

    • 5

      Expose and help manage sources of stress to the criminal personnel. Apply principals of psychology to the support and psychological analysis of criminal justice personnel. Build an environment and a working relationship with criminal justice personnel that facilitates a healthy and balanced approach to the execution of justice.

    • 6

      Build interdisciplinary teams within the criminal justice unit. Develop strategies for exchanging expertise and sharing information. Create a team atmosphere that supports both the justice system and the individuals working within it.

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