Training for Careers in Psychology–Law

Abstract

Abstract There are numerous indications that the field of psychology–law has grown tremendously over the past few decades. Some of the more prominent indicators include the use of psychology–law research in influential court cases, the law’s recognition that psychologists can serve as expert witnesses on mental health issues, the development of national and international professional organizations devoted to law and psychology/psychiatry, and numerous professional journals devoted to psychology–law topics. This chapter focuses on another indicator of the growth of psychology–law—training for a career in the psychology–law field. After describing the long relationship between the fields of psychology and law, this chapter discusses the varied roles for psychologists in the psychology–law field. Then, the chapter discusses the educational and training opportunities for those interested in psychology–law, including opportunities at the undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels.