Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychology

When I grow up I hope to be a forensic psychologist. Human behavior already intrigues me, and I would like to see how it can lead to a person's criminal activity. So, what is forensic psychology? Forensic psychology is a cross between the criminal justice system and psychology. This certain field of psychology is made mostly for criminals, usually these psychologist prevent or punish crimes. These professionals are given the task of why certain types of people commit crimes; what type of person committed a crime; and how to prevent people from committing crimes. However, like many other areas of psychology there are a lot of sub-sections, such as going into rehabilitation programs to help stop sex offenders, or in court they can also do assessments on if the person is 'insane' so if they are capable of standing trial or should go to a mental health facility instead of prison.

Psychology in general is very interesting to me, and I like how I have the ability to help people without having to be a doctor. I have always wanted to be there saving someone's life and since I do not have the stomach to become a doctor, I find that psychiatry is just the perfect way to reach my goal. If I could help keep a criminal off the streets, even if I had helped only in the smallest way, I would be happy. There are so many areas of forensic psychology I can go into and I am happy I am not restricted to a desk office, doing the same thing every day. I might be out with the police investigating or helping an offender conquer their problem.

As a forensic psychologist I would be helping repeated offender get on their feet, so they won't have to turn over to a life of crime. I would make sure the mentally ill criminals are treated right so they do not put themselves or others at risk. It would fill me with joy to see someone who has been help and has taken every piece of my advice back on their feet. Not relying on, drugs for example, which would make them, do stupid things.

From my description above, I do not sound like a forensic psychologist, but more a clinical psychologist. However both may seem the same, but they are not. First, a clinical psychologist can apply their knowledge to many different areas, but a forensic psychologist focuses on a few sub-sections like a person's mental stability and child abuse. Also, a forensic psychologist's clients didn't volunteer to be there, many of them are criminals or people who were order to be evaluated. Clinical psychologists have people who are seeking help come to them.

A lot of forensic psychologists spend a great deal of time working in prisons. I can apply my knowledge directly to correcting those in prisons. I can work with a group of people, helping them with their psychological issues like depression, anger, or substance abuse. I will consult those