Criminal law relies on a variety of professionals to conduct evidence-based research and implement effective measures. Psychologists in particular play key roles in dealing with the different structures of law enforcement, courts, and the correctional system. They conduct theoretical research, apply the knowledge gained to solving real-life cases, evaluate the effectiveness of proposed policies, and advocate for addressing existing gaps. In different environments, psychologists also perform various functions depending on their role.
As scientists, psychologists are directly involved in the development of scientific knowledge in their field, which is reflected in their primary roles. Basic scientists are engaged in various types of research and knowledge generation that may or may not be applied to real-world cases (Greene & Helbrun, 2019). Thus, psychologists can study various aspects of behavior, personality, and brain mechanisms to establish the causes and consequences of events associated with the law and its violation. Whereas basic scientists focus more on theoretical research, applied scientists focus on using knowledge to solve real-world issues (Greene & Helbrun, 2019). Such psychologists can directly participate in the investigation of criminal cases and act as experts.
In addition to research, the accumulation, and application of knowledge, psychologists can also participate in assessing the effectiveness of legislation. Policy evaluators apply their methodological skills to assess the effectiveness of new laws or test changes made in old ones (Greene & Helbrun, 2019). Psychologists, in this case, use both theoretical and practical skills to identify flaws in policies and adapt according to real situations. They can also “advocate for their clients’ overall well-being, effective treatment, and access to needed resources” (The advocate, n.d). In criminal justice, psychologists can identify existing barriers and problems and advocate for their transformation to the policymakers.
In the environment of law enforcement, the different roles played by psychologists imply different real activities. In this setting, basic scientists conduct theoretical research on the effectiveness of police and court interventions in specific circumstances. Based on the data obtained, one can later “design and implement evidence-based intervention” (Proctor & Vu, 2019, p. 272). Applied scientists use accumulated knowledge in practice, for example, when providing psychological support to police officers or when consulting judges. They can also participate in assessing the testimony of victims and criminals. Policy evaluators in the law enforcement environment work with communities to assess the effectiveness of proposed measures. For example, they can participate in the development of amendments to laws related to adolescents by cooperating closely with the police and schools. Advocates identify aspects that cause psychological distress to the police or court officials in order to address these challenges and find solutions to them.
In corrections, basic scientists research the behavior of criminals to develop measures to improve security. Applied scientists in this context work directly with criminals to establish the causes of crimes and transform their future behavior. Policy evaluators are involved in assessing the effectiveness of the proposed correctional measures for criminals in accordance with the available knowledge about the psychological characteristics of crimes. Advocates in this setting are involved in identifying gaps in the correctional system and drawing the attention of policymakers and the public to address them.
Within the framework of the court system, basic scientists, as in other cases, conduct research on how various psychological aspects affect the conduct of processes. Applied scientists, in turn, advise judges and policymakers on possible changes in working with court participants, victims, and defendants. Policy evaluators are involved in evaluating the effectiveness of proposals for restructuring the judicial system and methods of legal proceedings. Advocates perform the role of investigating the impact of the existing structure on criminal law, as well as addressing possible gaps, in particular with regard to the protection of rights of various groups. Thus, in different environments, the functions of the psychologist are transformed depending on the role.
References
Greene, E., & Helbrun, K. (2019). Wrightsman’s psychology and the legal system (9th ed.). Cengage.
Proctor, R. W., & Vu, aK. L. (2019). How psychologists help solve real-world problems in multidisciplinary research teams: Introduction to the special issue.American Psychologist, 74(3), 271-277. Web.
The advocates: Building a bridge between self-care and advocacy. (n.d). Psychotherapy Bulletin. Web.