The Impact of Forensic Science On Society

If you are looking for a challenging career that is associated with crime scenes investigation and criminal psychology, you may be wondering what to study. Many individuals interested in this field will either study Forensic Science or Forensic Psychology. However, with little background information, you may assume that these two studies are the same. 

Shows like Criminal Minds provide a fictional glimpse into the many ways forensic science and forensic psychology aids criminal investigations. However, these two fields may vary greatly and can range significantly in their overall rolls. 

In this article, we are going to cover the differences between forensic science and forensic psychology so you have a greater understanding of which field is right for you. 

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What is Forensic Science?

Forensic science is the scientific analysis of crime scene evidence. In a forensic science lab, scientists conduct²:

• DNA analysis²
• Fingerprint examinations²
• Firearm and bullet identification²
• Handwriting analysis²
• Forensic toxicology²
• Examination of fibers, liquids, glass, and other materials²
• Digital evidence analysis²

Using these powerful tools, forensic scientists help law enforcement solve homicides, suicides, rape cases, and cybercrimes with unprecedented efficiency.

The Benefits of Forensic Science

Forensic science enables experts to uncover and understand crime scene evidence like never before. With just a single cell of DNA or a fingerprint, forensic scientists can narrow down a list of suspects with powerful precision. 

Forensic science can fill in many gaps about a situation that’s under investigation. For example, it can determine:

• Someone’s cause of death
• If someone had alcohol or drugs in their system
• If someone was sexually assaulted
• If someone’s injuries were self-inflicted
• If a document was forged 

This information can guide a forensic investigation in the right direction.

Forensic science can also clear the names of people who were wrongfully convicted. Before advanced forensic science technology existed, many people were convicted on faulty eyewitness accounts alone. By revisiting these questionable cases with modern forensic technology, innocent individuals can finally get their sentences overturned and enjoy their freedom once again.

What is Forensic Behavioral Science?

Forensic Behavioral Science is a study that evaluates and manages crises methodologically and scientifically in the criminal justice field. Individuals looking to study Forensic Behavioral Science will gain a greater understanding of why violence occurs and what can be done to stop it in the future to protect our society. This study also teaches students how to predict potential violence and crime in order to prevent it from occurring. This study carefully analyzes the thought process and psychology behind criminal minds, allowing them to gain a greater understanding of their motives and purpose.

The Benefits of Forensic Behavioral Science

Forensic Behavioral Science provides an in-depth look into the violent or criminal mind. By studying criminal behavior and their motives, professionals can then devise plans on how to prevent crime in the future. By applying traditional forensic science analysis with behavioral science, crime scene teams are better able to mitigate crises, prevent emergencies, and protect our society as a whole. 

Study Forensic Behavioral Science at Alliant International University

If you’re interested in exploring a career in forensic behavior, read on. you can expect great employment opportunities. Studying forensic behavior is great because it’s a growing industry. It is projected to grow by 14% between 2020 and 2029. This growth rate is considered “much faster than average,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics¹. 

To get involved in the criminal justice field, check out the forensic degree opportunities at Alliant International University. Alliant offers a master’s program in Forensic Behavioral Science and a doctoral program in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law. This education will set you up for a rewarding career in forensic science.

Learn more about Alliant International University today. 

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Sources

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Forensic Science Technicians : Occupational Outlook Handbook," U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, September 08, 2021. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm
2. The United States Department of Justice, "Forensic Science," The United States Department of Justice, November 26, 2021. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.justice.gov/olp/forensic-science