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Criminal Psychologist
Criminal psychologists have the interesting job of attempting to get into a criminal’s mind to try to understand, and help others understand, why they committed a crime. People with this job have an understanding of psychology and the law and combine these fields to help uphold justice and protect communities.
These specialized psychologists analyze the thought process, intentions, and reactions of people who commit crimes so they can help in the sentencing of criminals and in the prevention of future crime. The career of criminal psychology got it’s start in the 1940s as psychiatrists worked to profile Adolf Hitler.
Criminal Psychologists In and Out of the Courtroom
In the courtroom, a criminal psychologist, like a forensic psychologist, is often a vital part of a criminal case. Many times these professionals decide if a person is mentally stable enough to stand trial. They use their knowledge of psychology to decide what is best for the individual and for the community and victims.
Criminal psychologists also analyze criminals to understand what prompted them to commit a crime, then they testify before the jury. Their job is to help the members of the jury come to a decision by helping them better understand the person standing trial.
Some criminal psychologists work in law enforcement or for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They study criminals and their behaviors to profile people like sexual criminals, murderers, and assailants. Some criminal psychologists even have their own private practice.
How to Become a Criminal Psychologist
Criminal psychologists earn their undergraduate degree in psychology and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy. D.) degree. They also complete internships and fellowship programs so they can gain hands-on experience and put the theories they learned in school to the test. Each state has different requirements and standards so criminal psychologists must also complete a state certification test.
