Career Opportunities In Forensic Psychology

By Brian Roberts


There is no moment in history that the world ever lived without crime. Authorities are constantly searching for a solution with deterrence being the main focus. There is also the need to punish persons who engage in crime. Forensic psychology is considered the discipline that will make it easier to fight crimes. After establishing the motives and motivations, it will be easier to counter the criminals.

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.

Psychologists working in forensics also participate in rehabilitation of criminals. Psychological state of a person acts as the software that will help him or her change into a law abiding citizen. These psychologists participate in crime prevention through research and foresight. They can identify individuals who by their socialization or history are likely to commit certain crimes. This will enable the authorities responsible to put in place prevention measures that reduce exposure.

There are different ways of qualifying as a forensic psychologist. The basic is a degree with focus on psychology, criminology or forensics. Specializations are criminology and criminal justice. Other areas of specialization include psychological deviance, abnormal psychology and forensics. To become an expert in this field, you will be required to advance your education by pursuing a masters or PhD in your chosen area of specialization.

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.

Criminal psychologists find employment in such areas as police stations, courthouses and law firms. They also form part of rehabilitation teams working in jails, juvenile detention facilities and prisons. There are private operators consulting for government or other organizations. They also act as expert witnesses in court cases. The expected salary for a psychologist is 85,000 dollars. Your duties and employer will determine the actual figure.

A psychologist working in this industry must display excellent listening and communication skills. Such a person must have the capacity to relate closely with both offenders and victims without losing objectivity. You are required to be systematic in your approach to work, be a good team player and leader. You must also possess excellent decision making and problem solving skills. Quick judgment could lead to errors and is therefore not entertained. You should also be aware of prevailing risks depending on the case you are handling.

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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