PSYC 2400 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Mental Health Law, Forensic Psychology, Forensic Psychiatry

• School: Carleton University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 2400
• Professor: kristarichards

Document Summary

Professional practice of clinical psychology focusing on assessment and treatment of individuals within a legal context. Clinical - professional practice of psychology within both civil and criminal law. Experimental - research that examines aspects of human behaviour directly related to the legal process. Mental health issues pertaining to legal system. Qualifications: graduate degree + registered with professional organization. While the definition states that forensic psychologists can be researchers or clinicians in reality many are both. Mostly interested in mental health issues as they pertain to the legal system (research and practice). Most clinical forensic psychologists are concerned with the assessment and treatment of persons with mental disorders within the context of the law. Researchers in this area are concerned with validating and creating assessment instruments. A clinical forensic psychologist may be based in the prison doing assessments to assist the parole board in making decisions about risk. Must be licensed clinical psychologist with a specialization in forensics.