Forensic psychology is the area of psychology that, added to legal knowledge, is applied in the judicial system and in the police to contribute to the resolution of cases.
Forensic psychology uses the knowledge and techniques of psychology to profile the parties involved in the process or investigation, in order to verify their motivations, intentions or any other element that contributes to the case.
As it is a subdivision of psychology, the professional needs to have higher education in the area and later specialization, given that forensic psychology has its own organizations, training and researches.
It is noteworthy that, as with all professions related to law, its attributions, requirements and characteristics may vary according to the legal system in each country. In Brazil, for example, it is still not common for psychologists to be exclusive in the area, but rather that they provide this type of service when required.
Forensic psychology can also be called legal psychology, although some authors understand that the second is more comprehensive.
Importance of Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology advances as the tools and methods of psychology are improved. The important results of this evolution are:
- more efficient applications of the area in the judicial milieu and in police investigations;
- humanization of the parties involved;
- treatment and court decisions increasingly personalized according to the case and, consequently, fairer.
Where appropriate, forensic psychology works as justice assistant, that's why forensic psychologists act in a totally impartial and their opinions must always be objective, that is, they may favor one party or the other.
Examples of Forensic Psychology Applications
The examples below are not the only situations where forensic psychology is applied. Regardless of the object of the process (the right being discussed), the parties have the power to request the technical opinion of a psychologist.
In addition, the judge is completely free to appoint a psychologist to act in the case whenever he/she deems relevant to the case. However, the most recurrent cases of application of forensic psychology are listed:
to the mental state of defendants in criminal cases
In cases where the defendant's insanity is alleged, it is necessary to assess his liability (ability to be held responsible). To do this, forensic psychology analyzes the defendant's psychological profile to determine the extent to which he has insight into his actions. In these cases, the technical report is crucial to define the sentence.
in the custody of the incapable
In legal disputes to decide the custody of the incapable, the forensic psychologist assesses the psychological profile of all involved parties to give an opinion on who should take care of the individual.
to the finding of risk of violence
In cases where risks of violence (often domestic) are alleged, the forensic psychologist assesses the potential victim, the potential aggressor and any witnesses to prepare a report that helps the judge in the decision.
to mediation
In cases where there is a possibility of agreement, it is possible for a forensic psychologist to help the parties find common interests and end the litigation.
See too:
- psychology
- social Psychology
- Juridical Psychology
