Forensic Practice: Pride and Prejudice

Abstract

ABSTRACT The field of forensic psychology and psychiatry has evolved rapidly and our research instruments and experts command growing respect among both the scientific community and lay audiences. We have, however, focused almost exclusively on assessment rather than treatment and, in doing this, have fostered the perception that most forensic clients are not amenable to treatment. The author discusses the role of child abuse in the backgrounds of many forensic clients and suggests how the literature on adult survivors of abuse could be applied to the treatment of forensic populations.