==== ====
Did you enjoy article
simlple leave some comments
==== ====
As a forensic discipline, forensic psychology can be located within the broader discourse of
forensic science. However, compared to other forensic specialisms e.g. forensic pathology,
forensic odontology etc, forensic psychology is often seen as the poor relation.
As with psychology in general, it is often perceived, particularly by those outside the discipline as
soft or pseudo science. Now while this is often based on a misunderstanding of the practice of
psychology, it's not difficult to understand why this viewpoint prevails.
Take for instance criminal profiling, which rightly or wrongly is often presented as a topic within
forensic psychology. There are a host of examples where criminal profiling has been shown to be
inaccurate. The Washington sniper case being the most obvious example.
Profiles indicated that a white man working alone was responsible. In the event, two black men,
John Allen Muhammed and Lee Boyd Malvo were arrested and sentenced to life in prison for the
killings.
The American Academy of Forensic Sciences cites accuracy and precision as the cornerstone of
professional practice, which makes perfect sense for a society dedicated to the application of
science to the law.
Now while it is possible to argue that so called 'hard' sciences can also be found wanting when it
comes to accuracy and precision, I'd suggest a more constructive approach, particularly for
students of forensic psychology would be to seek out a more balanced view when it comes to
defending or evaluating the scientific credibility of forensic psychology.
Criminal profiling represents a very clear case in point. For a start, there is more than one
approach to criminal profiling, the theoretical principles of which can differ markedly. While it is
possible to point to certain explanatory frameworks as subjective and untestable, equally, it is
possible to point to objective and testable statistical procedures being employed.
The ability to compare and contrast a range of approaches and evaluate their respective strengths
and weaknesses is an effective learning strategy and should be employed as a matter of course
within forensic psychology.
To find out more about the fascinating world of forensic psychology, visit my website:
http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/
Having worked as a lecturer in psychology in the UK, I recently moved to sunny Spain with my
family, where I now work as a distance learning tutor and research dissertation supervisor.
Since 2000, I've been involved in collaborative research with teams of forensic scientists in the
UK, US and Canada.
Keep up-to-date with the world of forensic psychology by reading the forensic psychology blog.
This regularly updated blog addresses the most common issues and questions raised by those
thinking of or currently studying and working in the field. Among the topics covered are career and
study options, forensic job opportunites, conference listings, internships, forensic research and
psychological research methods.
http://student-guide-to-forensic-psychology.blogspot.com/
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_A_Webb