Wednesday 20 April 2016

Career Opportunities 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.

Criminal forensics provides leads by establishing a motive of crime. The clues given by experts make it easier to trace a criminal and place him or her at the crime scene. The psychologists understand the thinking of these criminals. It is therefore easier to catch them. It strengthens cases for prosecutors or defense.

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.

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.

A criminal psychologist spends most of the day reviewing research work by others in the field or conducting own research. This is the way to identify trends or and patterns that lead to crime. With this information, authorities and organizations can put measures in place to disrupt them. The experience of a psychologist will enable him or her to place a culprit at the scene. The psychologist is better placed to spot evidence, a pattern or clue that could escape an ordinary person. Their testimonies are strong enough to topple a case either way.

Possible areas where psychologists are employed include law firms, police stations and courthouses. Their work in juvenile detentions, jails and prisons is to assist in rehabilitation. Psychologists who choose the path of self employment act as consultants for governments and private entities. A good number get their compensation from acting as expert witnesses during trial. The average earning for a psychologist is 85,000 dollars a year. The level of deviation from this figure depends on the engagements and the employer.

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 for forensic psychologists is always challenging and demanding. Your daily engagements involve sensitive legal matters. Self motivation and commitment will also make your work easier. Be resilient enough to handle criminals and crimes without giving up or breaking down.




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