Applying Diversity/Multicultural Guidelines - Essay Example

FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY GUIDELINES al Affiliation) Introduction In the contemporary society, forensic psychology has been perceived in various dimensions; specifically, this perception has been taken in direction that believes that forensic psychology encompasses two broad facets of psychology. One of these facets is the dimension of the justice system which basically entails criminal and civil matters while the other dimension involves psychological aspects of experiment and clinical matters (Posey & Wrightsman 2005).

In relation to the above concepts, forensic psychologists may undergo training in order to perform different roles in accordance to the two broad ranges of forensic psychology. However, important to note is that forensic psychologists may decide to engage in one specific role but in some cases, their assistance may be sought in a different case. Particular roles of forensic psychologists are; researching, trial consultations, psychological correctional experts, witnessing et cetera (www.apa.org n.d) . My role as a trial Consultant In this field, I expect to work with other legal professionals in various activities that majorly relate to legal issues for instance: Preparation of witnesses, undertaking the role of selecting the jury, preparation of court cases and the development of strategies that act as a guideline to undertake various cases.

Work Setting Work setting for this role varies depending on the type of case or issue to be solved; in many cases forensic scientists in this field undertake research based on legal matters by applying their legal skills and researching skills in order to provide pertinent information that will assist judges or attorneys to make verdicts. Trial consultants may be involved in both criminal and civil cases to offer assistance in the various stages of trial, that is; preparation stage, trial and after trial stages.

Population There is no specific population in which Trial Consultant Forensic Psychologist should work; however, the duties of a Trail Consultant may be undertaken in population setting depending on various factors which include; the area in which crime has been committed, type of information need to facilitate decision-making in the court as well as type of a court case (Criminal or Civil). Forensic Guidelines One of the important ethical guidelines that play a crucial role in the field of Trial Consultants Forensic Psychology is guideline (1) which indicates that: Forensic Psychologists have the responsibility to create awareness among their clients in relation to cognitive intervention matters i.e. expectations and goals, limitations of confidentiality as well as the dimensions of the psychologists.

The other imperative guideline that may be used by Trial Consultants is guideline (2) which depicts that: Forensic Psychologists are in a position to comprehend the appropriate research and practice issues in relation to the population or group of people concerned. Thirdly, guideline (7) which indicates that forensic psychologists, just like any other psychologist, should be in a position to take a great consideration on various aspects that may affect their decisions and the development of intervention measures for instance: Political factors, environmental, social and economic factors.

Relevance of the guidelines Guideline (1) plays crucial roles in the field of forensic psychology, specifically Trial Consultations. This guideline sets out measures that a psychologist is supposed to apply when undertaking various duties for example; it indicates that the psychologist should ensure that confidentiality is maintained while collecting information from clients and the legal limits of such confidentiality should also be observed. The guideline also indicates that expectations and goals of any activity undertaken by the forensic psychologists should properly communicated to the clients hence making it applicable in the field of Trial Consultants where large amounts of research are usually undertaken.

Secondly, guideline (2), asserts the pre-requisites of undertaking research; this is imperative in that it facilitates the understanding of the Trial Consultants who are majorly engaged in research activities. It enhances their performance due to a higher level of understanding of their research areas or populations concerned. Consequently, guideline (7) defines the considerations that have to be made by forensic psychologists before undertaking their research activities. Application of the Guidelines by Trial Consultants Trial Consultants performs their duties through conducting numerous researches; all the guidelines mentioned sets out measure that directs research activities.

Guideline would ensure that a harmonious relationship exist between the Trial Consultant and the client in that the client is made aware of the research goals, expectations and observation of confidentiality. On the other hand guideline (2) sets out measures that must be undertaken before conducting any psychologically oriented research that is; by understanding various factors mentioned in this guideline, Trial Consultants’ ability to perform their task is enhanced. Guideline (7) is also applicable in the sense that it can be used as a framework to undertake research by determining the impacts that various factors within the society may have on the final research hence facilitating the development of effective intervention measures.

Conclusion Application of the laid down guideline is imperative in any forensic psychological activity; matters related to cognitive research are usually sensitive and delicate in nature and need to be approached in an effective and ethically acceptable manner. It is therefore imperative that psychologists, specifically Trial Consultants, acquaint themselves with such guidelines to facilitate and enhance their performance. References American Psychological Association (APA). (n.d.). American Psychological Association (APA).

Retrieved April 10, 2013, from http://www.apa.org Posey, A. J., & Wrightsman, L. S. (2005). Trial consulting. Oxford: Oxford University Press.