1-2 Journal: Divergence Between Psychology and Law

Psychology and the justice system intersect in various ways. Because the individuals working within these fields have different backgrounds, training, and lived experiences, their goals and perspectives do not always align perfectly. This can lead to conflict about the best ways to achieve broader goals. In this assignment, you will explore the perspectives of psychologists and professionals in the justice system to gain a better understanding of how tensions may arise and how you can navigate these challenges in your professional life.

Directions

Write a journal examining the differences, conflicts, and collaboration between psychology and the criminal justice system.

Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

1. Psychology Objectives: Describe the primary objectives of psychology as a scientific discipline.
2. Justice System Objectives: Describe the primary objectives of the justice system as a societal institution. Support with examples about law enforcement and the court system.
3. Potential Conflict: Explain how the functions of psychology and the justice system can conflict. Support with examples of tension between the two perspectives.
4. Productive Cooperation: Explain how groups within the criminal justice system work together to complete necessary tasks despite conflict or tension between them.

What to Submit

Submit your journal as a 2- to 3-page Microsoft Word document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, and one-inch margins. Sources should be cited according to APA style.