New Directions in Teaching Forensic Psychology

Abstract

Due to the highly public nature of forensic psychology ( the testimony of forensic psychologists in courts and other adjudicative tribunals) there exists a critical need in forensic psychology training programs to teach not only didactically, but to give students ways of handling psychological data when confronted by attacks on their findings (such as cross examination). Several aspects of the training program in forensic psychology at Nova Southeastern University are described, all the way from basic courses in ethics and professional issues, to advanced courses in forensic consulting, civil and criminal law, and forensic assessment. Experiential exercises such as serving as expert witnesses in trials and hearings, and defending various psychological assessments against cross examination are described. Students write briefs and argue the psycho-legal issues in front of a mock supreme court justice, as well as prepare amicus briefs that address certain psychological issues in family law settings.