What is Forensic Psychology?

In our Psychology Overview 101 blog, we explored the broad landscape of psychology. Here, we will zoom in and explore the specific realm of forensic psychology!

Forensic Psychology involves the application of psychological principles, theories, and methods to understand and analyse various aspects of criminal behaviour, legal processes, and the interactions between psychology and the law.

The roots of forensic psychology can be traced back to the late 19th century, when psychologists such as Hugo Münsterberg and William Stern began exploring the application of psychological principles to legal issues. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that forensic psychology emerged as a distinct discipline.

Forensic psychologists work directly with individuals who are involved in legal proceedings, collaborate with law enforcement agencies, or provide expert testimony in court. Some of the key responsibilities of forensic psychologists include:

While both forensic and clinical psychology share common foundations, they each have very distinct focuses and objectives.

Clinical psychology primarily concerns itself with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders and psychological distress in individuals. It focuses on improving overall well-being and functioning, with psychologists typically working in therapeutic settings like private practices or hospitals.

In contrast, forensic psychologists are more likely to be found in correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, or courtrooms. Their work concentrates on applying psychological principles and methods in the legal context, addressing issues such as criminal behaviour, evaluations of competence, and assessments of risk.

One of the most intriguing applications of forensic psychology is criminal profiling. This involves the analysis of offender behaviour to construct a psychological profile of an unknown perpetrator. Forensic psychologists work closely with law enforcement agencies to examine crime scenes, evidence, and patterns of behaviour to develop insights into the offender's characteristics, motivations, and potential future actions. By understanding the psychological factors at play, criminal profilers assist investigators to narrow down suspects, prioritise leads, and ultimately aid in the apprehension of criminals.

Competency evaluations are an essential aspect of the legal process, aiming to determine whether an individual's mental fitness is suitable to stand trial. Forensic psychologists conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate defendants' ability to understand the charges against them, participate in their defence, and comprehend the legal proceedings. These evaluations consider factors such as cognitive abilities, mental disorders, and the presence of impairments that may hinder an individual's capacity to effectively engage in the legal process. Competency evaluations help to ensure that defendants are provided with a fair trial and can actively participate in their defence.

Eyewitness testimony often plays a crucial role in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. However, research has shown that eyewitness accounts can be subject to various biases, memory distortions, and other factors that may affect their reliability. Forensic psychologists contribute to the evaluation of eyewitness testimony by examining the factors that influence memory and perception, such as the impact of stress, suggestibility, and the presence of misleading information. Through scientific analysis and expertise, forensic psychologists aid in assessing the accuracy and credibility of eyewitness accounts, helping the authorities to make informed judgments.

Risk assessment and threat evaluation involve the systematic analysis of individuals' potential for future dangerous or violent behaviour. Forensic psychologists utilise various assessment tools, statistical models, and psychological theories to evaluate factors such as prior criminal history, mental health, substance abuse, and personality traits. These assessments are critical for determining the level of risk that an individual may pose to themselves or society, aiding in decisions regarding parole, sentencing, and the need for intervention or treatment. By predicting future behaviour, forensic psychologists help to enhance public safety and minimise the risk of reoffending.

Embarking on a career in forensic psychology will vary according to the country that you study in. For example, in the UK the typical path involves obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology, followed by a postgraduate qualification in forensic psychology. It is important to note that forensic psychology is recognised as a specialised area within psychology, rather than a distinct professional title. Aspiring forensic psychologists often get started with an accredited diploma in Forensic Psychology and gain some practical experience through placements, as this can significantly enhance one's prospects in the job market. It’s common to then pursue a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology, or a similar program that provides the necessary knowledge and skills for this field.

Forensic psychologists have a range of employment opportunities, with job settings that encompass both public and private sectors. Some common job settings include:

Forensic psychology serves as a fascinating field that intertwines psychology and the legal system, offering diverse career opportunities for those who are passionate about understanding human behaviour and its intersection with law. If you're interested in delving deeper into the world of forensic psychology, consider enrolling in our accredited online Forensic Psychology Course for only £29 (save £98!). Ideal for complete beginners or those who are considering a career change to become a Forensic psychologist, this is an excellent course for expanding your knowledge.