As a Forensic Psychologist you would apply psychological theory to the criminal and civil justice field. You would consider psychological problems associated with criminal behaviour and use intervention techniques and programmes for offenders. The intervention programmes can be one-to-one or carried out within a group setting to try to modify their actions and minimise the chances of them re-offending. Possible treatments often include anger management, cognitive and social skills training and treatment for addiction to drugs. You will be assessing the prisoners and may also provide support and training for other staff in order to reduce workplace stress.
Other aspects of the job include:
- Assessing the risks of re-offending
- Presenting evidence in court
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Giving expert advice to hospital staff, prison officers, the police, social workers, probation officers, judical and legal systems
- Interventions (helping with offender profiling and crime analysis)
- Overseeing prison/probation staff
- Liaising with other professions
- Research projects into this particular area
The largest single employer of Forensic Psychologists in the UK is the HM Prison Service. However, Forensic Psychologists can work for a wide range of agencies including young offenders units, secure hospitals and rehabilitation units within the NHS, community forensic services, education (researching and lecturing) and the social services.
Qualifications - How do I become a Forensic Psychologist?
What relevant work experience would I need?