Lecture 13 - Forensic Psychology

Question 1

What is a forensic psychologist?

Answer 1

• they apply psychological theory to various aspects of the justice system
• employed by HM Prison Service
• may work in other settings e.g. police stations

Question 2

Responsibilities of a forensic psychologist?

Answer 2

• carry out one-to-one assessments, often to assess the risk of re-offending
• develop, implement and review appropriate offender treatment and rehabilitation programmes
• undertake statistical analysis for forensic offender profiling
• work with victims of crime and the general public in relation to their fear around crime
• conduct applied research
• working with offenders directly to help them to overcome problems and change behaviour

Question 3

Salary of a forensic psychologist?

Answer 3

• Fully-qualified, registered psychologists within HMPS earn between £38,148 and £43,870
• Salaries for forensic psychologists within the NHS are at a similar level

Question 4

Working hours of a forensic psychologist?

Answer 4

37 hour week from Monday- Friday

Question 5

Training and qualifications of a forensic psychologist?

Answer 5

• need an accredited ug degree first
• then need a British Psychological Society accredited masters in forensic psychology, and stage 2 of the society’s qualification in forensic psychology which includes 2 years of supervised practice
• or you can get an approved Doctorate in Forensic Psychology which is offered by some universities

Question 6

Skills needed to be a forensic psychologist?

Answer 6

• communication and listening skills
• teamworking and leadership skills
• motivation and commitment
• problem-solving ability and decision-making skills
• planning and research skills
• a non-discriminatory, non-judgemental approach
• resilience

Question 7

What is a CV?

Answer 7

• an opportunity for you to carefully market yourself to a employer for a role
• it should show what you have to offer with respect to your qualifications, experiences and skills

Question 8

What are the 3 core headings of a CV?

Answer 8

1. personal details
2. employment history
3. education, qualifications and training

Question 9

Personal details?

Answer 9

• e.g. phone no. so the employer can get in touch with you

Question 10

Employment history?

Answer 10

• should list work experience in reverse chronological order

Question 11

Education, qualifications + training?

Answer 11

• should list the names of the institutions, dates of study + qualifications obtained

Question 12

What are some other sections of a CV?

Answer 12

• personal statement = short paragraph that explains to employers a little bit about who you are
• hobbies + interests = some details of activities you enjoy, especially if these are relevant
• references = contact details for two potential referees