The Ethical Practice of Forensic Psychology: A Casebook

Few resources exist for those interested in developing their professional competence vis-à-vis ethics in forensic psychology, with the most recent text being published more than a decade ago. However, forensic psychology is changing quickly and there is a need for a current guide on ethics within the field.

The Ethical Practice of Forensic Psychology highlights the ethical standards and guidelines set forth by the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (EPPCC) and the Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology (SGFP). This Casebook provides readers with a practical review of these ethical standards and professional guidelines in the context of forensic case vignettes with corresponding commentary by leaders in the field. Concepts are presented using a best-practices model that encourages and promotes engaging in empirically supported decision-making. This volume is distinct from all others published in this area, given its inclusion and integration of a review of the ethical standards and guidelines contained in the EPPCC and SGFP, in addition to numerous types of ethical dilemmas encountered in forensic practice, a review of the relevant empirical literature and case law/legal statutes, and commentary by experts in forensic psychology. This unique Casebook will prove useful for a broad audience including academics in forensic psychology, psychology graduate and post-doctoral students and trainees, practitioners, mental health counselors, social workers, and legal professionals.

Gianni Pirelli is a Licensed Psychologist in New York and New Jersey, wherein he maintains a private practice in clinical and forensic psychology. His primary areas of research include forensic mental health assessment, firearm-related matters, and ethics and standards of practice in forensic psychology.

Robert A. Beattey is a former prosecutor and civil litigator. He is an Enhanced Chancellor’s Fellow in the Psychology Ph.D. program at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, where he has been studying, teaching, and researching clinical and forensic psychology and neuropsychology.

Patricia A. Zapf is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, The City University of New York, and Director of Education and Training for Consolidated Continuing Education and Professional Training (CONCEPT). She maintains a private practice in forensic evaluation and is licensed in Alabama, Florida, Missouri, and New York.