What is forensic psychology?
Q: What is forensic psychology?
A: Forensic psychology is a branch of psychology that relates to the law and involves working with the criminal justice system.
Q: What is the main focus of forensic psychology?
A: The main focus of forensic psychology is the use of psychological practices and principles applied to the legal system, mainly in court.
Q: Who was the first to research and study the psychology of testimony?
A: James McKeen Cattell at Columbia University was the first to research and study the psychology of testimony in 1893.
Q: When was forensic psychology recognized as a specialty by the American Psychological Association Council of Representatives?
A: Forensic psychology was recognized as a specialty by the American Psychological Association Council of Representatives in 2001.
Q: What does a broad definition of forensic psychology include?
A: A broad definition of forensic psychology includes researching human behavior that is and/or can be related to the legal process and the use of psychological practice to consult on and within the legal system, including both criminal and civil law.
Q: How do forensic psychologists spend their time in a courtroom?
A: Forensic psychologists spend their time in a courtroom working as a witness for the court and answering questions based on interviews and discussions with people suspected of a crime.
Q: What are some aspects of a forensic psychologist's role?
A: Some aspects of a forensic psychologist's role include giving evidence as to the suspect’s ability to stand trial, giving their thoughts about the accused's state of mind at the time of the offense, and giving evidence of mitigating circumstances arising from the accused's condition at the time at sentencing.
