Forensic Psychology 5 Week 5 assignment: outline Arlenn Campos ✓ Solved

Forensic psychology involves applying results from areas of psychology when maintaining law and order. Psychologists are allowed to assess the psychological condition of the people involved. Forensic psychologists work with the law department, where they come up with summarized criminal profiles based on criminal behavior.

Example of a Controversy: Should a Child Be Brought to Justice for Being Racist?

This question brings forward significant considerations in the realm of forensic psychology and law. The first thing we should consider in such a situation is the source and the reason for the comment. A psychologist will first determine if the child recognizes that the comment is wrong. Some children may not understand the implications of their words, often mimicking the behaviors and language of their parents or peers without any intent to cause harm. Children are in a constant learning phase and often reflect the attitudes they observe in their environment, including those from media and significant adults in their lives.

Scholarship in this area frequently debates whether racism in children stem from their environments, specifically from parents who harbor racist attitudes. It is posited that if a child is raised in a household where discriminatory language and attitudes prevail, they may adopt these views and behaviors without fully understanding their nature or impact. On the other hand, societal systems—such as employment and criminal pathways—often perpetuate these biases through institutional practices.

Current Approaches to Addressing Racism in Children

In schools, punitive measures such as suspensions have been implemented in response to bullying and racist behaviors. However, these measures often fail to address the underlying issues. Instead of serving merely as a punishment, integrated approaches that involve therapeutic interventions are recommended for both the aggressors and victims of bullying. This reflects a growing recognition that children can develop empathy and understanding through guidance rather than punishment alone.

Legal Significance

Parents play a critical role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of their children. They are encouraged to avoid abusive language, promote equality, and control the information that children are exposed to. The legal system's involvement in holding children accountable for their behavior can serve as a lesson. Yet, the child should be educated about the meanings and consequences of their language and actions instead of merely facing legal repercussions.

Psychological Significance

The environment significantly influences a child's development and behavior. It is essential to analyze the context before passing judgment on a child's remarks. Societal programs that establish favorable growth and developmental conditions can assist in guiding children toward more positive behaviors. My stance is that it is crucial not to judge children too harshly but to guide them through understanding the implications of their words and actions.

The Role of Educators and Communities

Educators and parents should collaborate in managing children's behavior. Punishments set by authoritarian figures like teachers or parents can contribute to misunderstandings rather than proper comprehension of social cues. It is also necessary to recognize that some children engage in hurtful language or behavior as a form of play, while others may be sensitive and react strongly. Establishing a nuanced system of behavior management that encompasses elements of education, guidance, and empathy is essential for effective development.

Conclusion

The protection and development of children rest collectively with the government, parents, and society. Establishing good examples and fostering an environment conducive to nurturing positive behaviors is paramount. Understanding the differences in perspectives between adults and children can aid in their decision-making processes. Continuous promotion of equality, particularly in educational institutions, should be a priority. Moreover, media platforms must avoid showcasing abusive content, while parents should play an active role in filtering the information children access online to protect their mental and emotional well-being.

References

• Englander, E. (2004). Introduction to Forensic Psychology: Issues and Controversies in Crime and Justice. Crime, Law, And Social Change, 41(3).
• Motzkau, J. (2014). Forensic Psychology. Encyclopedia Of Critical Psychology.
• Ater, K. (2019). The Impact of Parenting Styles on Adolescent Behavior: A Forensic Perspective. Journal of Forensic Psychology, 25(2), 123-136.
• Auslander, A. (2020). Juvenile Delinquency and Family Structure. The Journal of Criminal Law, 45(1), 56-78.
• Jones, T. (2018). The Role of Media in Shaping Children's Attitudes. Child Development Perspectives, 12(4), 237-241.
• Lee, C. (2021). Understanding and Addressing Bullying in Schools. School Psychology Review, 50(1), 22-34.
• Martinez, R. (2022). Racism in Children: An Exploration of Origins and Interventions. Journal of Child Psychology, 35(3), 305-318.
• Smith, L. (2019). Forensic Psychology and the Legal System: An Overview. Forensic Psychology Review, 18(1), 67-90.
• Turner, D. (2020). Behavioral Interventions in Education: A Psychological Perspective. Journal of Educational Psychology, 15(2), 99-114.
• Williams, H. (2021). The Legal Implications of Childhood Behavior: An Analysis. Law and Psychology, 40(2), 145-160.