UNIT 1 Introduction

Defining Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is investigative psychology that looks into the psychological theories behind
criminal behavior. Why a person may commit a crime, who they may be and how they act are all
factors psychology explores. Forensic psychology applies psychology to law and the criminal
justice system.

According to the American Psychological Association (2021), Forensic psychology is a specialty in

professional psychology characterized by activities primarily intended to provide professional
psychological expertise within the judicial and legal systems.

Forensic psychology may be described as a branch of criminology. Criminology is the study of

the various aspects of criminal behavior. Forensic psychology and criminology are both
concerned with criminal justice.

Forensic science examines the scientific evidence at a crime scene—DNA collection and
analysis, fingerprinting, ballistics studies and other laboratory work. Forensic psychology
applies the study of psychology within a legal framework.
Societal Macro Level Theories:

1. Marist conflict theory holds that society has evolved in a state of conflict between
competing groups in society over material resources and institutionalized power. The
dominant class uses laws to control other groups and maintain its command or
hegemony.
2. Robert Merton's strain theory recognises that society's goals (prosperity, achievement,
etc.) are only available to a limited few. The rest can achieve the goals only through
deviant means. Some of these deviant forms of adaptation are innovative, as in Some
gang property crime. Others adapt to the strain by retreating into alcoholism, drug
addiction, suicide and vagrancy.
3. Feminist theory holds that criminality is associated with males. This perspective
assumes that the low crime rate among women can be explained by the gender-specific
socialization background. The values and norms set by society and the 'intended' female
role model mean that women have less opportunity to commit criminal acts.

Community/Locality Level Theories:

1. Differential opportunity theory: This was demonstrated in Cloward and Ohlin's

differential opportunity theory, which is the idea that people, usually teens, from low
 socioeconomic backgrounds who have few opportunities for success will use any means
at their disposal to achieve success.

Group and socialization influence theories:

1. Subcultural delinquency theories: youngsters with problems especially to do with the

home and school tend to associate with gangs and other groupings in which they can
achieve some status. Through criminal activity, delinquent groups may provide an
opportunity to achieve a sense of self-esteem.
2. Differential association theory: Edwin Sutherland viewed criminal behavior as learned.
The circumstances of an individual's upbringing determine their exposure to crime and
pressure to commit crime. This theory claims to apply at different strata of society. The
process of learning to be a criminal in middle-class communities may encourage
exposure to fraud, tax evasion and similar, more middle-class, crimes.
Individual:

1. Personality theories of crimes: Hans Eysenck's biosocial theory is a prime example of

this. It emphasizes the link between biological factors, personality and crime.
Nevertheless, many others have attempted to find the particular patterns of personality
associated with either specific crime or crime in general.
2. Biological theory: Many attempts have been made to identify the particular biological
characteristics of offenders ~ their genetic make-up, brain activity irregularities and
hormonal imbalances being typical examples. Evolutionary theories are related to
genetic theories but concentrate on just how evolutionary factors lead to the selection
of certain genes, including those associated with gender, to be passed on to the next
generation (Quinsey, 2002).
3. Genetics: The XYY (supermale) chromosomal syndrome may act on the brain's limbic
system (which regulates man's most primitive drives, including his impulses toward
violence) and somehow help trigger violent criminal acts. This occurs in about one in
1000 men.
 History of Forensic Psychology

In conclusion, forensic and criminal psychology has evolved from being a marginal field to
becoming a major sub-discipline within psychology. While it was initially overlooked, its
recognition and popularity have grown significantly since the 1970s. This growth has led to an
increasing number of psychologists specializing in the field, resulting in the establishment of
sub-specialisms within forensic and criminal psychology. The field has integrated personnel from
other subdisciplines of psychology, ultimately consolidating its position as an important area of
study.
 Scope of Forensic Psychology

The scope of forensic psychology is broad and encompasses several areas such as:

1. Criminal Profiling: Forensic psychologists analyze crime scene evidence and offender
behavior to create profiles of potential suspects, assisting law enforcement agencies in
investigations.
2. Courtroom Consultation: Forensic psychologists provide expert testimony and
consultation in court proceedings, assessing the mental competency of defendants and
offering insights into psychological factors relevant to the case.
3. Assessment and Evaluation: Forensic psychologists conduct assessments to evaluate
competency to stand trial, assess risk factors for violence or reoffending, conduct
forensic evaluations for child custody disputes, and assess the impact of trauma on
victims.
4. Victim Support and Rehabilitation: Forensic psychologists offer support, counseling, and
rehabilitation services to crime victims, assisting them in coping with trauma, managing
PTSD, and facilitating recovery and reintegration.
5. Correctional Settings: Forensic psychologists work in prisons and rehabilitation centers,
conducting psychological assessments, developing treatment plans, providing therapy to
inmates, and contributing to offender rehabilitation programs and risk assessment for
parole decisions.
6. Research and Academic Roles: Forensic psychologists engage in research, conducting
studies to expand knowledge in the field. They work in universities, research institutions,
or collaborate with professionals to explore various aspects of forensic psychology.
 7. Consultation and Training: Forensic psychologists provide consultation and training to
legal professionals, law enforcement agencies, and others in the criminal justice system.
They offer guidance on psychological factors, legal procedures, and evidence-based
practices to enhance understanding and application of forensic psychology.

Note that pursuing a career in forensic psychology in India requires appropriate qualifications,
such as a master's or doctoral degree in forensic psychology or clinical psychology, relevant
experience, and adherence to licensing requirements for practice.

Cases in india:

1. Nirbhaya Gang Rape and Murder Case: The brutal gang rape and murder of a young
woman in Delhi in 2012, leading to widespread protests and discussions about
gender-based violence, women's safety, and the psychological impact on society.
2. Burari Deaths Case: (2018) The mysterious deaths of 11 family members in Delhi's
Burari locality involved psychological elements such as occult practices, shared
delusions, and possible influence of religious beliefs on the tragic incident.
3. Sushant Singh Rajput Case (2020): The case surrounding the death of actor Sushant
Singh Rajput brought attention to mental health issues, depression, and the role of
psychological factors in suicide.

Cases in general:

1. Ted Bundy: Ted Bundy was an American serial killer active in the 1970s. Forensic
psychology played a crucial role in his case, including profiling, psychopathy
assessment, and trial consultations.
2. Jeffrey Dahmer (1980s): Jeffrey Dahmer, also known as the "Milwaukee Cannibal," was
a notorious American serial killer who had a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder
and exhibited psychopathic tendencies.
3. Jodi Arias Trial: The trial of Jodi Arias (2013), charged with the murder of her
ex-boyfriend, involved forensic psychology experts providing insights into areas such as
domestic violence, personality disorders, and potential mental health issues.

The implications of forensic psychology can be summarized as follows:

1. Understanding Criminal Behavior: Forensic psychology helps us understand the

psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, allowing for a better
understanding of motives, patterns, and risk factors.
2. Enhancing Justice System: Forensic psychology improves the fairness and accuracy of
the justice system by providing expert evaluations of witnesses, suspects, and
defendants, ensuring reliable testimony and informed legal decisions.
3. Profiling and Investigations: Forensic psychology assists in creating offender profiles,
aiding law enforcement in identifying potential suspects and narrowing down
investigation strategies.
 4. Rehabilitation and Treatment: By assessing and addressing the psychological needs of
offenders, forensic psychology contributes to rehabilitation programs, reducing
recidivism rates and promoting successful reintegration into society.
5. Victim Support and Understanding: Forensic psychology provides insights into the
impact of crimes on victims, helping to develop effective support services and aiding in
their recovery.
6. Policy Development: Forensic psychology research informs the development of
evidence-based policies and procedures in areas such as eyewitness identification,
interrogations, and offender risk assessment.

Overall, forensic psychology plays a vital role in improving the understanding of criminal
behavior, ensuring the accuracy and fairness of legal proceedings, and facilitating the
rehabilitation and support of both offenders and victims.