Legal and Forensic Psychology: What Is It and What It Is Not

This book seeks to distinguish empirically-based knowledge from widespread misconceptions in the fields of legal and forensic psychology. Across ten chapters, leading scholars contribute different perspectives on their areas of expertise within the fields of legal and forensic psychology, providing a comprehensive overview of the historical context and defining characteristics of these two disciplines. The first section of the book is dedicated to legal psychology, exploring issues such as pseudoscience in lie detection, the use of polygraphs, and the reliability of eyewitness testimony and memory reports in legal settings. The second focuses on forensic psychology, addressing topics such as the relationship between criminal behavior and psychopathology, symptom validity assessment, risk assessment, and the treatment of forensic patients. As such, this vital book will serve as an excellent starting point for those seeking to educate themselves about these disciplines.

Irena Boskovic is Assistant Professor of Forensic Psychology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.