What is forensic psychology?

Abstract

Increased involvement of psychologists with legal processes'and products has resulted in an indiscriminate use of the term 'forensic psychology'. It is argued that forensic psychology denotes the provision of psychological information to facilitate legal decisions rather than a particular form of psychological knowledge or skill. This is a specialized function that can be exercised by any psychologist with expertise appropriate to a legal question and goes beyond clinical or criminal issues. It is also an activity undertaken for the agents of law. Stricter delineation of forensic psychology is needed to clarify the professional and ethical obligations of psychologists who offer services in legal contexts and to avoid misleading consumers. © 1996 The British Psychological Society.