Forensic Psychology?

Question

I am very interested in becoming a forensic pychologist, I was just wondering in the real world to they do similiar roles to Cracker or Robson Green's character in Wire in the blood. IE does criminal profiling really go on or is it just made up by media

Answer 1

Forensic psychologists are involved in a variety of activities. Criminal profiling may be one of them, but it is probably a minority of forensic psychologists who get involved in that area. As well, some forensic psychologists become involved in jury selection. More typical is assessment of individuals around areas such as competency and criminal responsibility. Forensic psychologists will often evaluate defendants and then provide expert witness testimony regarding their mental state and how that might relate to their alleged crime. Some also work in correctional settings, or with parole services doing risk assessment or treatment for offenders. Another quite different area is custody and access work. So, while it is probably not as exciting as TV (what is?) it can be a varied and interesting career. Here's a good link with a lot more information: http://www.wcupa.edu/_ACADEMICS/sch_cas.psy/Career_Paths/Forensic/Career08.htm

Answer 2

It's not nearly as glamorous as the media make it look. Most Forensic psychologists are employed by the prisons/probation service, the forensic psych in our area does little more than group work delivery and interpretation of psychometric tests because the area aren't making full use of her.

I have a degree in psychology and have considered pursuing a path in forensic psychology but money for assistant and trainee psychs is awful and it's really competitive

Answer 3

Forensic: Pertaining to, connected with, or used in courts of law or public discussion and debate. Forensic psychologists testify in court, conduct assessments for probation, lawyers, and other aspects of the legal system. Additionally, forensic psychologists deal with legal issues such as laws, policies, and competency hearings. They also conduct competency assessments and testify in court regarding his or her findings. It requires a PhD, PsyD, license, and post-doctoral training and internship. Sorry, it isn't like TV.

Answer 4

Be interested, be very interested, watch CSI on Tuesdays and other channels throughout the week, very enthralling, realistic, microbiology, neurology,psychology, zoom, zoom,zoom etc, excellent program. Go for it, don't give up, all the best!

Answer 5

Yes, profiling is done. My friend, who does this, has a PhD in Psychology, specializing in Organizational Behavior.