Forensic Psychology 101

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Forensic Psychology 101

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Forensic psychology is closely aligned within the criminal justice system, and is used as a resource to evaluate the competency of an accused or convicted individual.

Working closely with the courts and corrections, a forensic psychologist will issue a battery of written tests and verbal exams to evaluate the defendant’s capability to understand the gravity of the crime and his competency to stand trial.




A qualified forensic psychologist must be able to establish a rapid rapport with the subjects to be evaluated.

What may seem like a friendly conversation is actually laden with key questions for the forensic psychologists to interpret and evaluate the data.

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A prime candidate for this profession will have an innate ability to evaluate the human psyche on multiple planes of criteria.

A deep understanding of human behavior from verbal and non-verbal cues are essential for the forensic psychologist to get to the truth.

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Body language and speech patterns carry an underlining tone of truth that the psychologist must be ready and prepared to interpret.





The forensic psychologist will deal mainly with criminal behavior, but may also have to evaluate children who are victims or witnesses in court.Their testimony may carry great sway in a criminal proceeding, and a judge may order a psychological evaluation before it is permissible in court.




Working with minors or victims is a specialty interest in forensic psychology and may be practiced on a full time basis using them as expert consultants for a circuit of judges.

The study of forensic psychology should be begin at the Bachelors level with concentration in basic psychology with a minor in criminal justice.





The importance of understanding court and correctional procedures helps to shape the language of the forensic psychologist and better prepares the student to enter the criminal justice system.

A typical forensic psychologist will work with inmates at the county jail for analysis to stand trial, or will be asked to evaluate an inmate from the penitentiary for parole eligibility for release.




The opinions of the psychologist will confirm or deny a judge’s decision to release a convict, making this branch of the criminal justice department one of the most powerful arms in the system.

Advanced education is the key to a successful career as a forensic psychologist.




Students who pursue a Masters and PhD in their respective field will take a decided lead over those who remain at the Bachelor’s level.

The study of the human mind is an industry where the psychologist will want to keep their skills sharp with continuing education.


The perfect candidate to succeed in this industry is one with a strong command of language and solid interpersonal communication skills.

The forensic psychology student is alert to signals and undertones and able to convey that data in a technical report to be delivered to court.

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Professional appearance and mannerisms are required at all times and the psychologist must be able to work under pressure and deadlines.

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A thick skin is a definite plus as your professional opinions may not always be shared by colleagues and other members of the criminal justice system.

But at the end of the day, the psychologist carries the clout and will be the final vote for the inmate’s destiny.

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Forensic Psychology 101