Forensic Psychology Job Description

Adegree in forensic psychologyoffers students exciting choices for career options, both with a master’s and doctorate degree. Forensic psychology is applying the principles of psychology to criminal situations, such as trials and parole hearings.

With the advent of television programs focusing on the investigation of crime scenes and apprehending offenders, many people already visualize this to be the typical work of forensic psychologists. The career path for a forensic psychologist is much more diverse, and it offers many different types of jobs and circumstances in which to work.

Acareer in forensic psychologybegins with proper training and education. To obtain an appropriate degree for this field students should focus their studies on criminal justice, psychology and sociology. More job options for forensic psychologists are available with higher degrees of education. A person with a master’s degree can work in various settings including correctional centers and law offices, but someone with a doctorate will also have the ability to work with clients in counseling sessions, supervise the work of others, and even teach forensic psychology at the university level. The job options expand with additional education.

Forensic psychologistswork in the judicial system and apply psychological principles to criminal situations. They may counsel offenders to determine their motive or to assess if they are criminally insane. Some forensic psychologists examine video interviews or test results of accused persons to analyze their behavior in certain situations. Forensic psychologists also take part in the jury selection process for court cases. They are able to investigate and understand the meaning behind certain behaviors or responses of potential jury members to determine if that person would be a good candidate for jury selection. Forensic psychologists are also called to be expert witnesses during court cases and must testify, giving their professional perspective about particular investigations.

Forensic psychologists must work closely with law enforcement officials, attorneys, members of the court system and many others to use their skills toward solving crimes and judging cases. Some forensic psychologists work independently as consultants, being called upon for their expert opinion. Other forensic psychologists work in private practice to counsel clients. Some clients may be criminal offenders who are mandated for therapy. Other potential clients could be families who are facing custody disputes or those whose parental rights have been revoked. They may counsel juvenile offenders to determine motive and assess the best corrective measures to take.

Forensic psychologists who have advanced degrees are also capable of training others in the profession. They work at universities and other institutions of higher learning to teach classes and meet with students about their education. They also must assist in teaching the clinical component of a student’s educational process and be available to help during the required clinical rotation.

A degree inforensic psychologyoffers various career paths that can lead to exciting work. The daily activities in this field provide many opportunities to work with various kinds of people and situations that make a difference in the lives of many.