Problem 1: introduction Flashcards
What is forensic psychology?
It engages with settings, purposes and issues centered on criminal and civil justice. It includes the behavior, usually harmful to others, which triggers the operation of the agencies which then involved.
What are the 4 core roles of a forensic psychologist?
Conducting psychological applications and interventions
Research
Communicating psychological knowledge and advise to other professionals
Training other professionals in psychological skills and knowledge
What is the main focus of forensic psychology?
Clinical psychology applied to a forensic context
What are the key questions in forensic psychology?
Who commits crime and why?
How do we assess the risk of criminal behavior and recidivism?
What can we do to minimize that risk?
What does ‘fitness to plead’ mean?
A defendant must understand court proceedings and aid in their defense
What can impair a defendant’s fitness to plead?
Lack of medication, addiction, trauma, or mental disorder
What is ‘Actus Reus’ in legal terms?
The criminal act or lack of an act
What does ‘Mens Rea’ refer to?
The intent or willingness to commit a crime
What is the M’Naughten test of insanity?
A test to establish if a defendant was insane at the time of the crime
What are the disposals for insanity cases?
Hospital order, supervision order, absolute discharge
What is the definition of automatism in legal terms?
Lack of intent or involuntary action beyond the individual’s control
What does conducting psychological applications and interventions involve?
Identifying, assessing, and addressing issues through a cycle of formulation, planning, implementation, and evaluation
What is involved in the research role of forensic psychologists?
Designing, conducting, analyzing, and evaluating applied, field-based research projects
What is essential when communicating psychological knowledge to other professionals?
Sensitive and appropriate interpersonal engagement with their perspectives
What does training other professionals in psychological skills involve?
Analyzing suboptimal job performance and investigating various factors affecting it
