Forensic Psychology

Abstract

Forensic psychology requires the application of psychological knowledge to the law in legal, contractual, and administrative matters. Several factors differentiate general clinical practice and forensic practice, including the relationship between the clinician and the person receiving a clinical service, the level of neutrality required in forensic work, and the types of testimony that can be offered by clinical and forensic practitioners. Forensic mental health professionals, including psychologists and psychiatrists, are frequently called to testify as expert witnesses on various psycholegal issues. The educational and training process to become a forensic mental health professional is described briefly.