ABSTRACT
During the past decades, the frequency and range of expert testimony by psychologists have increased dramatically. The increasing prominence of expert psychological testimony appears to be the result of two factors: the rapidly expanding research base in areas of interest to the courts, and changes in the legal standards governing the admissibility of scientific evidence. This book brings together leading scholars who have contributed to the scientific foundation of expert testimony and who have also served as expert witnesses. It illuminates most of the areas in which psychologists serve as expert witnesses, highlight areas where there are gaps in our knowledge base, and suggests ways of enhancing the application of psychological research to important legal issues. The increased prominence of expert psychological testimony in the courts and the reduction of barriers between the disciplines of psychology and law are welcome opportunities that can benefit both fields and the vast number of people they serve.
