What does a Forensic Psychologist do?
A forensic psychologist is someone who studies the actions and motives of criminals, and applies this research to other criminals. He or she usually has a degree in psychology, criminology, or both. Most have at least a master’s degree. After getting their education, many forensic psychologists spend several years as a police officer. This experience gives them insight into the lives and thought processes of criminals. Forensic psychologists work in many different areas of the justice system. Some work in courtrooms, while others work for police departments. A forensic psychologist may also work in prisons or detention centers, as a college professor, or with a community outreach program. It is hard to narrow down exactly what a forensic psychologist does. Because there are so many different branches of psychology (social, cognitive, behavioral, and so on) and so many types of crimes (arson, murder, robbery, and others), there are many different things that a psychologist may do. It is
Actually, very few forensic psychologists do profiling. The FBI doesn’t even have an official occupational title of “profiler.” They have a unit that analyzes violent crime that sometimes does profiling, but you have to be an FBI agent for about 3 years before you can even apply. Most of the forensic psychologist I’ve known either work in jails or do evaluations. Clinical-forensic psychologists may work in secure forensic units. These can either be locked units in a hospital or a mental health unit in a jail. They may also perform court services (like expert testimony, assessment, or treatment) or work in private practices, performing assessments of competency to stand trial or not guilty by reason of insanity. They may also be involved in conducting research and scholarship in areas such as violence risk assessment, treatment needs and response, and decision-making strategies. The difference between a forensic psychologist and psychiatrist is related to the degree. A forensic psycholo
