Forensic Psychology Jobs
Description of Careers in Criminal Profiling

Forensic Psychology jobs are among the most interesting forensic science careers.

Learn about various criminal profiling jobs & salary of Forensic Psychologists

Although they’re listed under one title, there are many forensic psychology jobs available in the field.

Forensic psychology is the study and application of the many links between criminal behavior, the law, and criminal justice.

Whether dealing with criminals, victims, or legal system employees, the forensic psychologist is the go-to specialist in terms of competency, motive, mindset, and rationality.

Getting employed in this field takes a lot of time and effort.

Schooling is of the utmost importance, as many employers want a specialist with advanced degrees. But the rewards of earning such a position are great—the satisfaction of serving justice, the varied aspects of the job, and the salary are just a few of the many benefits.

Forensic Psychology Job Description

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what is forensic psychology

A forensic psychologist wears many hats. If employed in this field, you may be called upon to perform a wide variety of tasks, including:

  • Assessment of dangerousness of criminals
  • Performing competency exams on criminals and victims
  • Mediating child abuse cases
  • Providing expert testimony on the witness stand
  • Detecting malingering or deception during trial

While the basic aim of the forensic psychologist is to bridge the gap between psychology and law for members of both systems, the activities required of the specialist will vary from agency to agency and firm to firm.

Whereas psychology requires an empathetic approach to the client, forensic psychology necessitates an almost dispassionate method of study.

The forensic psychologist must approach each assessment, test, or study from the perspective of a criminal investigator. This may seem like a cold position to take, but it means that the findings will hold up in court more so than a psychologist who openly identifies with the person he or she is studying.

It is by no means an easy job, but forensic psychology is certainly an interesting one.

Careers in Forensic Psychology

mystery solved

If you’re intrigued by the idea of becoming a forensic psychologist and you have what it takes to excel in the training, then you’ll surely want to know what kinds of forensic psychology jobs are available.

Despite what you may have gleaned from popular movies and television shows, forensic psychology is really a banner under which a great many different positions are available.

The first distinction you need to make is whether you want to work in the public or private sector.

If you work in the public sector, you can expect to take on a  number of different activities as you work for various agencies. However, since you're a federal employee, your take-home salary will not be as high as private sector employment.

On the other hand, working for a private firm your paycheck will soar above publicly employed forensic psychologists. However, the requirements for employment are oftentimes much more rigorous. Most high-profile private parties expect a doctorate degree from a reputable institution.

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Think a career in criminology is for you?

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But whichever road you decide to take, be it public or private, rest assured that you don't need to stay employed in that area forever

Additionally, there are a number of different positions available as a forensic psychologist. Here’s a brief sampling of the kinds of forensic psychology jobs out there:

  • Staff Psychologist
  • Forensic Nurse Examiner
  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Correctional Psychologist
  • Rehabilitative Psychologist

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