Clinical Psycho Q

FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY

A MODERN HEALTH PROFESSION

by

Wolfgang Linden and Paul L. Hewitt

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What Is Forensic Psychology?

• Forensic psychology is the intersection of psychology and legal issues.
• It involves the application of psychology knowledge to issues pertaining to law and the legal process.

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Forensic Psychology Today

• As the field of forensic psychology gains respect in the psychological community, training opportunities have increased.
• The American Psychological Association established forensic psychology as a specialty area within psychology.

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Forensic Psychology Today (cont’d)

• Several organizations provide forensic psychology certifications and grant credentials.
• Specialty guidelines and practice standards are being developed for the field.

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The Clinical Forensic Psychologist

• Clinical forensic psychologists are involved in assessments, treatment, consultation services, and the training of students and other professionals.
• Clinical forensic psychologists must have a PhD in applied psychology and training in the delivery of forensic services.

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The Clinical Forensic Psychologist (cont'd)

• They must also study law and legal procedures.

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The Clinical Forensic Psychologist (cont'd)

• The domains of clinical forensic psychologists are
• police psychology
• crime and delinquency
• victimology
• correctional psychology
• legal psychology

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Differences Between Traditional Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology Practice

• The goal of a clinical psychologist is to help the patient; the goal of a forensic psychologist is to help the court.

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Differences Between Traditional Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology Practice (cont’d)

• Clinical psychologists see patients for multiple sessions for a period of time that is not highly structured; forensic psychologists may see a client for a couple of sessions in a highly structured, evaluative context.

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Differences Between Traditional Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology Practice (cont’d)

• Clinical psychologists should be supportive and caring during therapy; forensic psychologists must remain neutral and detached.

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Tasks of the Clinical Forensic Psychologist

• Assessment
• Treatment of crime victims and perpetrators
• Treatment of workers in the legal field
• Consultation and opinions
• Lie detection

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Tasks of the Clinical Forensic Psychologist (cont’d)

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Tasks of the Clinical Forensic Psychologist (cont’d)

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Tasks of the Clinical Forensic Psychologist (cont’d)