The Practice of Correctional Psychology

Abstract

In terms of the psychology services workforce, training opportunities in correctional settings are now commonly available and offered within graduate school training programs. Psychologists and students wishing to pursue careers in correctional psychology can easily chart a course to accomplishment. This chapter introduces history and a review of key constructs essential for a correctional psychologist's knowledge. It reviews the frequency and prevalence. It also reviews important studies on the frequency of given phenomena or prevalence of a disorder for male and female offenders within various jurisdictions, where available. To become proficient, it will always be necessary for correctional psychologists and students to read, practice, re-read and practice some more. The more nuanced features of correctional psychology practice have always been transmitted experientially, through the environment, as opposed to didactically through textbooks and coursework. Whereas theory and research provide the necessary supports and elements for the foundational knowledge required of the practicing correctional psychologist, the integration of the knowledge and its implications in a practice are continually unfolding and best mastered through ongoing supervision alongside collegial dialogue and support. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)