Role conflict regarding the psychological expert evidence in the judicial process

Abstract

The article analyzes the contribution of psychological expert evidence to the judicial process, as well as the different roles played by psychologists. The different issues on which it is possible to request an opinion from a psychologist are described and the procedural role of the psychologist in the trial is assessed. The scope of professional secrecy is analyzed when the psychologist acts as a forensic psychologist or as an expert witness psychologist. The different duties and responsibilities of psychologists and judges in court proceedings are dealt with. It is important for psychologists to recognize both the obligations and limitations of their responsibilities when testifying. Finally, current difficulties and role conflicts are pointed out and the main future challenges for the research in this controversial field are indicated.