Both fields are dedicated to understanding the complex realm of criminal behavior and often overlap in the world of criminal justice, however, they approach their investigations from unique perspectives.
In this article, we will explain the differences between criminology and forensic psychology, offering a clear picture of these interesting field.
Criminology Vs. Forensic Psychology
Criminology is the study of crime, its causes, and its impact on society. It focuses on the criminal justice system and crime prevention strategies. Forensic psychology, however, combines psychology and law, using psychological principles to aid legal processes, such as evaluating a defendant’s mental state or a witness’s reliability.
Core Differences
The U.S. criminal justice industry is quite vast with a number of options for interested candidates to explore further. Two such fields areforensic psychologyand criminology, which are directly related tocriminal justice. Though stemming from the same broad industry, the two disciplines are actually quite dis-similar.
For starters, forensic psychologyis a unionbetween the justice system and the field of psychology. Here, the teachings and principles of psychology are applied to the justice system with the intent of creating a more robust and fool proof justice delivery system.
An example of forensic psychology in action is the assessment of criminal defendants’ mental competence to stand trial. A forensic psychologist may evaluate an individual’s mental state to determine if they are mentally fit to understand the charges against them and assist in their own defense. This assessment helps ensure that individuals with severe mental illnesses receive appropriate treatment and can participate effectively in their legal proceedings.
Criminology, on the other hand is the study of criminal behaviorat the micro and macro levels, i.e. individual and social levels. Using scientific methods and tools, criminologists study the crime, the behavior of the criminal as well as the victims of the crime.
The purpose of criminologists is to understand why crimes take place, the impact they have and leave behind and how to prevent those crimes from happening again in the future. At their disposal, criminologists use statistics, empirical evidence, past research and quantitative methods to study crime.
Criminologists typically engage in research and analysis of crime patterns, statistics, and social factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
For example, a criminologist might conduct a study to analyze the socio-economic factors that lead to higher rates of property crime in certain neighborhoods. By examining data on income levels, unemployment rates, and community resources, they can identify correlations and trends that help policymakers develop strategies to reduce crime in those areas.
Differences in Work Environment
Forensic psychologists may find themselves working with law enforcement agencies, detectives, lawyers and other psychologists. One of the core areas of work for forensic psychologists is to give expert level testimonies in courts regarding the nature of the crime as well as the state of mind of the criminal.
It is quite possible that forensic psychologists will cross paths with criminals where they may have to examine their state of mind. For some, this is quite an exciting first-hand experience
Criminologists usually spend a large portion of their work hours studying criminal profiles, past case records and may interview criminals and law enforcement agents with the intent of creating trends. Some criminologists can also spent time in correctional facilities and clinics to help treat criminals.
At times, criminologists may have to consult with psychiatrists, psychologists and even sociologists to get another opinion – so there may be a degree of collaboration in this field.
Differences in Education
To actually begin practicing in the field and adding value to the legal system, a forensic psychology must have the right credentials.
Once the academic and certification requirements are out of the way, one must choose the right area of practice since forensic psychology has a number of niches. Most positions may start off as entry level or research level, which is fine since one has to start somewhere.
As a criminologist, your journey to get there will involve being exposed to a number of different yet relevant disciplines – so you can think of criminology as a multidisciplinary area where you will expose yourself to a number of areas to gain a well-rounded foundation. There is not much exposure to advanced psychology as such – there is more focus on existing research on criminal profiles, crime statistics and other academic areas that are linked to criminal psychology.
Differences in Career Opportunities
There are some key differences in career opportunities between forensic psychology and criminology:
Forensic Psychology:
Criminology:
Which One Should You Select?
Whether it is a sense of justice, past experience, a sense of nationalism, or natural detective skills, the motivation to add value to the criminal justice system comes from within. If you have one or all of the above internal motivations to make a positive impact, then perhaps the best thing you can do for the nation is become a criminologist.
If you feel that you have the necessary wisdom and acute senses to add value to this field, then you should work towards becoming a forensic psychologist to make a name for yourself in the industry.
