Forensic Psychology Exam 1 Study Materials (Ch. 1-3) Flashcards

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Forensic Psychology

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Professional practice by psychologists applying scientific, technical, or specialized knowledge of psychology to the law. It includes evaluations, testimony, research, and clinical services across multiple subdisciplines to assist legal, contractual, and administrative matters.

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PhD

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A doctoral degree that is research-oriented and typically requires extensive publication and training in research methods. PhD programs emphasize producing original research that informs practice and theory in psychology.

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Psy.D

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A clinically-oriented doctoral degree focused on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness rather than research output. Psy.D. graduates typically have less emphasis on publishing than PhD holders and more clinical training.

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APA Recognition

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The American Psychological Association officially recognized forensic psychology as a legitimate subspecialty in psychology in 2001. This recognition reflected sufficient research, data, and literature to distinguish forensic psychology from other areas.

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Master's Degree

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The minimal educational requirement for many entry-level forensic psychology positions is a master’s degree. Master’s programs usually require about two years of study and may limit the scope of clinical or forensic work permitted without further specialization.

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Forensic Digital Analyst

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A specialist who collects and analyzes computer and digital evidence related to crimes, including cybercrimes and digital footprints. They recover, preserve, and interpret data to assist investigations and legal proceedings.

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Forensic Meteorologist

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A professional who reconstructs past weather conditions to inform investigations, such as collisions or outdoor crime events. Their analyses can clarify timelines, visibility, and environmental factors relevant to legal cases.

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Forensic Entomologist

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A scientist who studies insect activity on decomposing remains to estimate postmortem interval and other forensic timelines. Their expertise helps determine time-since-death and circumstances surrounding body recovery.

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Jack the Ripper

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A historical serial killer case frequently referenced to illustrate investigative history and media influence on crime narratives. The case highlights how media portrayals can mislead public understanding and the importance of empirically based forensic science.

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APA Ethics Code

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The APA Ethics Code outlines moral principles and professional standards guiding psychologists’ behavior, including confidentiality and practicing only within one’s competence. For forensic specialists, following the code protects clients and the integrity of the profession but can present applied challenges in legal contexts.

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NGRI

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An acronym for 'Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity,' a legal verdict indicating the defendant was legally insane at the time of the offense and therefore not criminally responsible. Forensic psychologists evaluate mental state at the time of the offense to inform such determinations.

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First Responder

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Professionals such as EMTs, police officers, and firefighters who are among the first to arrive and provide assistance at emergency scenes. They face unique occupational and organizational stressors and often receive specialized psychological screening and support.

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Types of Stress

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Stress can be short-term or long-term, personal, occupational, or organizational, each with distinct causes and effects. First responders commonly experience cumulative and organizational stressors like long shifts and counterproductive policies that erode coping abilities.

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PTSD

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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder is a condition that can develop after exposure to traumatic events and includes symptoms like intrusive memories, hyperarousal, and avoidance. Victims and some first responders are at elevated risk, and forensic psychologists may assist in assessment and treatment planning.

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Fitness-for-Duty

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An evaluation to determine whether an employee, often in public safety, can safely and effectively perform job duties given their psychological functioning. These assessments typically consider current mental health, risk factors, and return-to-work recommendations.

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MMPI

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The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory is a widely used psychological test designed to reveal mental health concerns and personality structure. It should not be the sole measure for major decisions and is best interpreted in context with other data.

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Amygdala

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A limbic system structure central to processing fear and anger and initiating stress responses. The prefrontal cortex helps regulate and execute responses, so dysfunction in these systems can affect impulsivity and aggression.

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Cognitive Load

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An approach to deception detection that assumes lying imposes greater cognitive demands than telling the truth. Investigators increase cognitive load by asking unexpected or detailed questions to elicit leakage and discrepancies in deceptive accounts.

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False Confessions

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Admissions of guilt from innocent people that can result from coercion, compliance for relief, persuasion, or vulnerabilities like youth or intellectual disability. Different types include voluntary, compliant, and persuaded false confessions, and prevention involves improved interrogation practices.