Psychological Science in the Courtroom

"Unusually cohesive for an edited volume, this book brings the latest scientific research in forensic psychology to bear on some of the major controversies currently confronting the justice system. The authors describe myths and misconceptions about behavior in forensic contexts, detail the research that debunks those myths, and identify gaps in our existing knowledge. Providing a well-written and concise overview of many important research areas in both clinical and experimental forensic psychology, the book would be an excellent text for an upper-level undergraduate seminar or capstone course in forensic psychology, or for a graduate proseminar. It is also a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars who seek to understand what psychological science has to contribute to ongoing debates at the intersection of psychology and law."--Margaret Bull Kovera, PhD, Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York

"Outstanding. Skeem et al. present essential information in areas ranging from eyewitness testimony and memory bias to interviewing, interrogation, criminal profiling, and polygraphy. The contributors are top experts in the field whose chapters are comprehensive and scholarly, but also accessible and engaging to read. Discussions of key controversies, myths, and misconceptions--alongside coverage of established facts and knowledge gaps--bring an intriguing spice to the mix. Forensic psychologists will find this volume indispensable. Its content and accessibility also make it a superb choice as a text for courses in law and psychology."--Christopher J. Patrick, PhD, Hathaway Distinguished Professor and Director of Clinical Training, Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota

"By focusing on controversies, this book goes right to the heart of the disputes over the reasoning and theories used by forensic experts. As a forensic mental health expert, you’d better know the possible lines of attack on your opinions. The book’s breadth ensures it will be helpful in preparing for almost any case, and its sophistication will clarify your thinking, whether you’ve worked on one case or one thousand."--Peter Ash, MD, Director, Psychiatry and Law Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University


"A valuable addition to the law and mental health literature. This volume provides a concise and balanced review of contemporary issues in forensic psychology. The editors and the impressive contributing authors have succeeded in creating a repository and critical analysis of the research to inform readers about the state of the science. What sets this book apart--and makes it particularly valuable for students, practicing mental health professionals, and attorneys who deal with psychological evidence in the legal environment--is its engaging and consistent style, the depth and breadth of the subjects, and its analytic rigor. Social workers who testify in child welfare and probate matters, appear as experts in court, conduct custody evaluations, and work in legal settings will gain important knowledge to prepare them for these roles."--Robert G. Madden, LCSW, JD, Master of Social Work Program, University of Saint Joseph - A welcome addition to the literature on legal and forensic psychology....The editors have compiled a book that covers a number of critical areas in forensic/legal psychology and have assembled a host of well-regarded researchers to discuss the relevant science on these issues....The research coverage is top caliber....An excellent resource. --PsycCRITIQUES, 5/10/2009ƒƒ A fascinating compilation, with 17 chapters that give brief, apparently objective....overviews of such diverse topics as so-called repressed memory, forensic hypnosis, eyewitness reliability, interrogation, projective testing, malingering and deception, criminal profiling, psychological pseudoscience, child custody evaluations, trial competence, violence risk, and offender rehabilitation. --Journal of Psychiatric Practice, 5/10/2009