ABSTRACT
The overarching focus of this chapter is on training in forensic psychology. The chapter begins with a brief discussion of the history of forensic psychology. A discussion of this history highlights both how forensic psychology evolved as a specialty area of practice, and the role of the modern forensic psychologist. Building on this information, the chapter turns to a discussion of educational and training opportunities in forensic psychology. This portion of the chapter will focus on the current state of practice, educational and training opportunities available to students and practitioners in the field, the diversity in training models employed in these various training programs, and whether current training models adequately prepare students to become forensic practitioners. Next, the chapter narrows the discussion to training in forensic assessment and intervention. Forensic assessment and intervention are compared, and best-practice models for delivery of such services are explored. The discussion of best-practice models highlights the role of existing principles-based approaches to forensic assessment, and how such models might be constructed in the area of forensic intervention in the future. The discussion of forensic intervention models also focuses on the potential contribution of the broader evidence-based practice movement within psychology. The chapter concludes with a discussion of how principlesbased approaches could enhance the quality of forensic training and practice.
