Forensic Psychology

This chapter provides a history of the field of forensic psychology by examining the historical intersection of psychology and law. After tracing the development of modern forensic psychology, this chapter describes the primary roles performed by forensic psychologists. These include conducting forensic assessments in criminal and civil contexts, providing therapy to forensic patients, conducting research on forensically relevant topics, and serving as a forensic consultant. This chapter concludes with a discussion of the many employment settings in which forensic psychologists can work.