In popular fiction, forensics psychologists are often profilers who help track down psychopaths from clues of their personalities. Or they advise cops on how to negotiate with kidnappers or hostage takers. But this is only one small part of the big field of psychology and the legal system. There is much research into mental disorders that cause criminal and anti-social behavior, involving not just psychopathology but also aspects of social psychology and personality science.
A large portion of this study focuses on convicted criminals in prison, and criminological researchers also work with prisoners to assist them with their rehabilitation. Psychologists play an important role in courtrooms, too, giving evidence or helping to decide the degree of responsibility that a defendant is held accountable for or the reliability of witness testimony. They may also determine whether someone is legally able to marry, and how old they must be before they can do so. In addition, behind the scenes, psychologists may rule on issues such as the age of consent and criminal responsibility.
