Distinguished Contributions to Forensic Psychology Award
On Improving Forensic Evaluation Practices
The product delivered to judges and attorneys by psychologists and other mental health professionals who evaluate persons whose mental states are at issue in legal proceedings is lacking in some important ways. More specifically, research examining forensic examination practices indicates that forensic examiners' reports and testimony too frequently 1) do not focus on the psycholegal issues before the court, 2) fail to adequately address important aspects of the examinee's psychological functioning, and 3) lack objectivity and are subject to various sources of bias. Possible responses and solutions are offered.