Forensic psychology involves the application of psychological science within the legal and criminal justice system.
Forensic mental health professionals use psychological concepts from neuropsychology, criminal psychology, social psychology, and other research to help inform and improve the criminal justice system. They help address legal questions through assessments, treatment, and consultation.
Professionals in the field integrate interviewing, evaluation, assessment, research, and forensic psychology skills. They apply their knowledge to perform a variety of services including but not limited to, risk and threat assessments, psychological autopsies, child custody evaluations, competency evaluations, help with jury selection, witness evaluations and can help establish improvements to prisons and correctional systems. They can influence public policy, treatment of defendants, and can provide expert testimony.
Researchers in forensic psychology study a variety of topics that explore the intersection of human behavior, the law, and the criminal justice system.