Career Prospects In Forensic Psychology

By Brian Roberts


The world has lived with crime since time in memorial. Authorities are in frantic search for ways to deter the criminals and appropriate punishments for those who refuse to obey the law. The use of forensic psychology is making investigations easier to conduct with better leads on motivation and punishment. It has an infusion of law with the aim of finding a comprehensive solution to crime.

The main responsibility for psychologists working in this field is to provide clues and especially establish the motive of crime. They also act as expert witnesses and will be the source of the final clue that convicts a suspect. It is their understanding of the mind of a criminal that makes the capture easier.

Criminal psychologists are also crucial in the process of rehabilitation. They understand the mind that directs a person into crime and thus can easily reverse their thinking to turn the criminals into law abiding citizens. Their participation in crime prevention is to understand trends and histories that predispose individuals to crime. This will enable authorities to device ways of preventing these crimes by reducing the level of exposure.

The path to becoming a forensic psychologist varies. Most people begin with a basic degree in psychology, criminology or forensics. You are then required to specialize in such areas as criminology, criminal justice, abnormal psychology, forensics or psychological deviance, among others. Advanced training at Masters or PhD level is required to turn you into an expert.

The work of criminal psychologists is mainly to conduct research and analyze information that assists investigators in their search for answers. They also help in prevention by identifying patterns and providing information to authorities so that they can interrupt and disrupt crime. They engage closely with criminals, their associates, relatives and victims. Their work at the scene is to thoroughly study the area with the aim of establishing, confirming or dispelling the evidence provided. Their testimony is strong enough to decide a case.

Psychologists specializing in forensics will most likely be found in police stations, law firms and courthouses. They also work in juvenile detention facilities, prisons and jails. There are self employment opportunities for these psychologists working as consultants. Others choose to be expert witnesses from where they get compensation. A psychologist earns an average of 85,000 dollars in a year depending on the employer and the duties assigned.

Some of the skills required to work in this industry include excellent communication and listening. You must manage to establish close relationships with the offended and the offender. Your approach to work must be systematic with attention to details, team work and great leadership skills. Your decision making and ability to solve problems must be top notch. There are personal risks that you will be exposed to. You must also not be prone to quick judgment.

The work environment is very challenging and demanding. You will be exposed to sensitive situations and risky encounters with offenders. Critical thinking will help you make the right judgments in cases that ordinary persons consider obvious. You must be resilient since crime scenes and criminals are never easy to deal with.




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