This book provides a broad overview of the history and practice of forensic psychology, illustrating the principles of how psychological knowledge can inform judges and juries in the U.S. legal system with reference to several high publicity cases. The second edition contains new case law and discusses its implications in the major areas of forensics, examining new developments in juvenile justice, malpractice complaints, and reproductive rights, among other topics. The authors address specific aspects of forensic psychology within seven distinct sections: What is Forensic Psychology? Understanding the Criminal Mind Can Psychologists Measure Pain and Suffering? Family Law and Fitness to Parent Juvenile Justice Legal Consultation Based on Social Psychology Practical Tips for Forensic Psychology Experts An essential resource for current and aspiring forensic psychologists, the second edition of Introduction to Forensic Psychology serves as a thorough introduction to a complex field, featuring updated cases and related legal developments.

This book gives readers critical insights into the human impact of extreme trauma, and the various levels of mental impairment suffered by both victims and survivors. Renowned trauma experts William Dorfman and Lenore Walker give this book immediate relevance through the use of real-life examples from a wide range of crisis situations. They have also deliberately minimized research citations within the text for greater readability.

"A major contribution to this subject. She is thorough, practical, compassionate, and authoritative. It is a reading must."--Phyllis Chesler