Forensic Psychology Is a Relatively

Forensic Psychology is a relatively new discipline, fusing criminal justice with biology and human psychology. Huss (2001) defined the term in his article as such: "the professional practice by psychologists within the areas of clinical psychology, counseling psychology, neuropsychology, and school psychology, when they are engaged regularly as experts and represent themselves as such, in an activity primarily intended to provide professional psychological expertise to the judicial system." Although this phrase is helpful, more details are needed to truly explain how forensic psychology can commit to the greater good of society.

The first great step for forensic psychology occurred nearly forty years ago in 1978. During that year, the American Board of Forensic Psychology began certifying diplomas in this science. This was an important first step to begin cultivating the new developments that were being discovered in this up and coming field. This legitimizing of the discipline paved the way for more interest and attention on the subject.

Bartol & Bartol (2012) laid out a brief history of the development of forensic psychology and listed several benchmarks that highlighted its evolution. Another important development occurred, when, in 2001 the American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognized forensic psychology as a legitimate specialty within field, is especially important. This recognition allows for more specialized attention, education and funding that can be specifically dedicated to this quickly growing science. This contribution towards the evolution of this field gives more credence and attention to these practices, making this award important for everyone involved.