Forensic Psychology And forensic science

Although many people with an interest in forensic psychology have a parallel interest in forensic science, the two terms are not synonymous.

• Forensic science has a foundation in the “hard” sciences and involves laboratory-based investigation of crime scene evidence, such as DNA collection and analysis, taking fingerprints, and examination of firearms and bullets.

• Forensic psychology, on the other hand, is defined by the American Board of Forensic Psychology as “the application of the science and profession of psychology to questions and issues relating to law and the legal system.” Essentially, forensic psychologists specialize in applying psychological knowledge to situations within a legal context.