Criminal psychology is not confined to ‘the study of a criminal’s psyche and his behaviour’. In fact, it is the ‘churning’ of every circumstance that could provoke a person to commit a crime. Criminal psychologists play a pivotal role in the legal system, as they are well-versed with laws and the repercussions of a crime. Their meticulous profiling – from the intent of the criminal to their course of action – makes them reservoirs of facts and information that can be used to resolve cases.
What it takes
To pursue criminal psychology, you have to be inquisitive and pay heed to minute details which could potentially be overlooked by others. It requires you to be dynamic and brave as you may find yourself dealing with some grave situations.
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You should be intuitive as you would have to dig up a lot of concealed information.
Additionally, you must develop the skill of observing and analysing body language. You have to decipher a lot, with just limited resources available.
Thus, being patient is extremely important. Even if you empathise with others, be wary of your surroundings. The best way to practise is to observe an active criminal psychologist.
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A criminal psychologist invests a massive time in interrogating people, to research the accused’s life history, or to provide a testimony in court. A professional criminal psychologist is often summoned by court to help the jury in making decisions.
You may be from any of the the streams (arts/science) in 10+2 to apply for a criminal psychology course. You must have a passing certificate from the board your school is affiliated to. The duration of the undergraduate level course is generally three years. Criminal psychology courses are offered by various institutes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Scope
Criminal psychologists are hired in numerous fields. Some work for local, state, or federal governments; others are self-employed or work as freelance consultants. They may also be instructors who teach at criminology training centres and universities.
It is often noticed that many victims don’t report against the crime because they are scared. A criminal psychologist can actually bridge this gap and make India a safer country to live.
Criminal psychologists become a great help to the police at the scene of the crime. They can help evaluate patterns, discover clues, and connect the dots.
Many criminal psychologists now undergo firearm training because there are potentially dangerous circumstances involved in law enforcement. It is a challenging career, and the outcomes are truly rewarding.
The author is a criminal psychologist and social activist.