What Does an FBI Forensic Psychologist Do?

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The Psychological Profile

Interest in an occupation as an FBI forensic psychologist has taken off with a big bang, largely due to the number of television shows that glamorize the role of the forensic psychologist. Those who believe the job would launch an exciting career as a criminal detective may find themselves sadly disappointed in the actual functions of a forensic psychologist.

The forensic psychologist does not work alone at the crime scene. As fellow consultants, the psychologist also arrives with a criminal investigator, and sometimes a pathologist. The FBI forensic psychologist looks at the crime scene to try to determine the behaviors of both the victim and perpetrator. Sometimes, two separate crime scenes will appear to have two separate offenders, as the responses of the victims may be different; with one submitting passively while the other one struggled. In determining the victim’s behavior, the psychologist can closely identify the possibility of the perpetrator being the same person.

The Paper Work Psychologist

Much of the work of an FBI forensic psychologist is not in visiting crime scenes as a profiler. The forensic psychologist uses tests and assessments developed by psychology experts and researchers to evaluate individuals. Their tests may include evaluations for reliable witnesses, degree of emotional abuse in victims, and determination as to whether the offender is a drug addict, has a mental disorder or is competent to stand trial.

The forensic psychologist relies on the empirical evidence of on-going behavioral studies. Their formal training includes core classes in psychometrics, neuropsychological tests and measurements and neuropsychological assessment. The tests and evaluations are used for assessing and treating individuals within the criminal system with a high risk for aggressive behavior in the community work place, treatment facilities and prisons. They are also used to address degree of criminal responsibility, such as if the death penalty should be involved, and behavioral issues like battered woman’s syndrome, alcoholism, sexual disorders or domestic violence.

Their paperwork involves research, testifying and consulting on psychological issues affecting the legal process, such as eyewitness testimony, jury selection, children’s testimony, repressed memory pre-trial publicity and the implication of rumors. They design and implement special treatment to individuals within the legal system. They consult with lawmaker on the psychological implications of public policy issues.

Forensic Psychology from the Ground Up

It’s necessary for the FBI forensic psychologist to have a comprehensive understanding of the law and criminology. Their first year of experience are usually with the police force or in the department of courts and corrections. As a forensic psychologist for the police department, you will gain direct link with crime scene investigations, but your work may involve psychological consultation for members of the force as much as it does assessing the behaviors of victims, offenders and witnesses. You may advise members of the police force on psychological methods for eliciting responses from uncooperative witnesses, silent victims and suspected offenders. You may teach classes on forensic psychology and abnormal psychology.

It’s the paper trail of analysis into criminal behavior and their effects on community that draws FBI attention. It’s the forensic psychologist who can’t stop asking why people resort to violent behaviors. It’s the ones who have diligently followed the regiments and test results and have added their own documentation on patient analysis and treatment. The individuals, who have the ability to write well, articulate clearly, have a strong background in legal procedures, are the best candidates for FBI forensic psychologists.