Forensic Psychology

[Name of the Institute]

Abstract

The study if criminal attitude and behavior is important in understanding the psychology of criminal actions and mental frame of mind when a personal commits a crime. Also, it is important to study the witnesses to understand the actual circumstance at the scene of the crime. Forensic psychology deals with the same concept; Forensic psychology interlinks law and psychology as well as provides guidance in legal decision making. There are a number of psychological factor associated with criminal state of mind, which results in criminal actions. In this paper, we will study this concept and factors that are associated with these actions and state mental state of both criminals and witnesses. The intensity of sudden shock on the mind of a human being, it impact on the perception and initiatives which shapes the human behavior in unfavorable circumstances. It should also be noted that forensic psychology has different branches like cognitive, criminal, clinical, investigative, and developmental psychology. Forensic psychologist can make a huge difference to other's people life.

Table of Contents

Introduction4

Background of Forensic Psychology4

Psychopathology4

Forensic Psychology and Clinical Psychology5

Forensic Psychologists6

Psychological Autopsy7

Forensic Interview8

Conclusion9

References10

Forensic Psychology

Introduction

Oxford English Dictionary defines the word "forensic" in the context of law courts. Hence, forensic psychology deals with the applications of psychology in providing assistance to the criminal justice system. Wrightsman (2001) argues that forensic psychology helps the legal system to deals with the knowledge of psychology. On the other hand, Blackburn (1996) argues the broader sense of forensic psychology is also related to crime; for instance, rebellious behavior development, studying different types of criminals, and avoidance of crime. The use of forensic psychology in investigations increases immensely.

Forensic Psychology is an experimental science that supports and advises the judges. The aim of forensic psychology is to provide the judicial process principles, techniques and psychological tools that allow a more objective assessment of human behavior and help the judge to issue sentences consistent with the demands of the accused. The work of the forensic psychologist as an expert advisor in legal proceedings is a clinical and diagnostic issues in which professional judgment concerning the mental state of people involved somehow in the process of law. The expert report prepared by the forensic psychologist is a written document in which the expert presents its considerations and conclusions on the facts that have been the subject of expertise. In some cases, experts must ratify orally under the supervision and subject to the clarification of the parties. The forensic psychologist may also intervene by issuing a clinical report. These are usually cases that have been addressed by the professional on the occasion of his clinical practice, and that receives a request for a report to verify the treatment given and the causes that originated it.

Background of Forensic Psychology

Hugo Munsterberg is considered as the father of psychology. He was a German psychologist. In 1892, William James invited him at Harvard University to set up a psychological laboratory. The Munsterberg argued that the application of psychology is in every field such as education, ...