criminology and forensics personal statement

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22 May 2024

6 minutes read

How To Write Criminology & Forensic Science Personal Statement Example

Dirghayu Kaushik

Key Takeaways:

• A forensic science personal statement showcases your passion, skills, and goals beyond academics.
• Highlight experiences that sparked your fascination with criminal behaviour and the science behind investigations.
• Demonstrate an analytical mindset, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to make an impact.
• Discuss your understanding of forensics as a multidisciplinary field combining science and human psychology.
• Convey motivation to specialize, communicating your vision for an impactful career in the field.

Writing an attractive personal statement is crucial when applying for forensic science programs , criminology, or criminal justice programs. It’s your opportunity to showcase your interest in forensics, analytical mindset, and future career aspirations. Admissions committees seek students passionate about uncovering the complexities of crime scenes, combining disciplines like science, sociology, and anthropology for a unique perspective.

An exceptional forensic science personal statement should highlight your problem-solving abilities , critical thinking skills, and a knack for teamwork. Provide insights into experiences that sparked your fascination with forensics, criminal behaviour, and the intricate puzzles of investigations. Demonstrate your commitment to making a valuable contribution to this challenging yet rewarding field through clear communication skills and a drive to learn.

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• What Is A Forensic Science Personal Statement?

A forensic science personal statement is a crucial component of your application to undergraduate or graduate programs related to forensics, criminology, or criminal justice studies. This essay allows you to showcase your passion, motivations, relevant experiences, and future goals within the forensic science field.

In a forensic science personal statement, you’ll need to communicate why you are drawn to this multidisciplinary area that combines science, law, and investigations. You can highlight your analytical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and interest in complex criminal cases. Admissions committees will look for your understanding of the role forensic science plays in the criminal justice system and your potential to excel in this demanding yet rewarding career path.

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• Tips To Write A Successful Statement of Purpose

Writing a winning personal statement is crucial for securing your place in a competitive forensic science, criminology, or criminal justice program. This essay is an opportunity to showcase your unique qualifications, experiences, and perspectives that make you an ideal candidate.

With that said, here are some tips to help you write a successful personal statement:

Highlight Your Passion for Forensic Science

Explain what sparked your interest in forensics and criminology from a young age. Discuss personal experiences, school roles (prefect), internships, or work experiences in the criminal justice system that solidified your passion for this field. Mention documentaries, shows, or books that fueled your fascination with solving puzzles and seeing the bigger picture behind criminal behavior.

Demonstrate Understanding of the Field

Show you are aware that forensic science is a multidisciplinary field combining sciences like toxicology, biology (DNA interpretation), and chemistry (fibre analysis) with criminology and psychology. Discuss how you aim to deepen your knowledge through practical experiences and an analytical mind suited for discovery and courtroom responsibilities.

Discuss Relevant Skills and Qualities

Emphasise skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and attention to detail that will make you an ideal candidate. Provide examples of how extracurriculars, academic projects, or interests like puzzles allowed you to develop and apply these qualities, preparing you for this challenging career.

Share Your Motivation and Goals

Convey your desire to pursue a master’s and specialise in a specific forensic domain like criminal psychology or digital forensics. Explain how this qualification will provide a solid foundation for an impactful career helping the criminal justice system and society by interpreting evidence and understanding human behaviour and mental health issues.

Adhere to Format Guidelines

Research the program’s requirements and follow length, structure, and formatting specifications. Revise for clarity, flow, and impactful storytelling that convinces admissions you are a highly motivated applicant well-suited for their forensic studies.

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• 3 Forensic Science Studies Personal Statement Samples

You know that curiosity that grips you from a young age about what makes people tick? That indescribable urge to get to the root of things? Well, that’s exactly what led me down this path towards forensic science. From the moment I thumbed through my first forensics book, I was hooked by the incredible integration of science and human behaviour.

My academic career has been a quest to deepen my understanding of these interconnected disciplines. Whether studying toxicology, analyzing DNA processes, or delving into criminology theory, each learning experience has been another piece of the puzzle. But it’s not just about knowledge – I’ve also prioritized hands-on training through internships and volunteering with law enforcement. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of applying forensic techniques in the real world.

In the correctional facility where I interned, I had the privilege of working alongside devoted forensic professionals. Their impacts – from untangling mental health factors to providing courtroom testimony – were inspirational. With my problem-solving mindset, stellar teamwork abilities, and commitment to ethics, I know I have the potential to be that game-changing forensic scientist making a profound difference.

Let me take you back to when I was a kid, utterly transfixed watching forensic experts on TV meticulously comb through crime scenes. I’d imagine myself there, piecing together the forensic evidence to crack the case. That same exhilaration has driven my academic path and pursuit of practical forensic experiences.

My psychology electives highlighted how crucial forensic specialists are in understanding criminal motivations and rehabilitating offenders. Simultaneously, chemistry and biology fueled my passion for evidence analysis through toxicology, DNA, and more. From documenting deteriorating crime scene samples to studying interrogation techniques, each project and internship deepened my respect for this fascinating convergence of science and human behaviour.

What truly sets me apart is my innate ability to approach complex problems from multiple angles. I thrive on collaborating with teammates, proposing creative solutions, and persevering until the puzzle is solved. My determination to specialize in forensic psychology stems from this drive to not only interpret evidence but also elucidate the human narratives propelling crimes.

They say to follow your obsessions and let them become your calling. Well, my calling has been forensic science for as long as I can remember. The intricacies of uncovering criminal cases through detailed evidence analysis? I’m utterly fascinated by the process.

On my academic journey, I’ve built a sturdy foundation through rigorous coursework and lab training. Analyzing fingerprints, interpreting DNA sequences, reconstructing crime scene timelines – each module amplified my zeal for this multifaceted field. But it’s the human element underlying forensics that truly captivates me. To better understand criminal psychology and motivations, I purposely undertook electives in sociology and human behavior.

My enthusiasm extends far beyond the classroom too. By actively participating in forensics clubs, developmental workshops, and internships, I’ve gained invaluable real-world experience working with law enforcement. Collaborating alongside seasoned professionals sharpened my teamwork abilities, communication skills, and appreciation for diverse perspectives in forensic investigation.

So as I approach the next phase of this journey, I’m fueled by determination to excel. With my work ethic, a keen eye for detail, and natural problem-solving talents, I have all the tools to distinguish myself as an impactful forensic scientist making groundbreaking discoveries.

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At the end of the day, a personal statement for criminology or forensic science programs is about more than just academics – it’s about painting a vivid picture of who you are as an individual. This is your chance to step out from behind the transcripts and test scores and let your authentic voice shine through.

So don’t be afraid to get personal. Share the experiences that sparked your fascination with the mysteries behind criminal behaviour. Discuss the challenges you’ve overcome or the “aha” moments that solidified your path. By infusing your statement with genuine passion and personality, you’ll forge a memorable connection with admissions committees.

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What is the purpose of a criminology and forensic science personal statement?

A criminology and forensic science personal statement is a document that accompanies your university application. Its purpose is to showcase your motivation, interests, and qualifications for pursuing a degree in criminology and forensic science. It should highlight your strengths, experiences, and goals, demonstrating why you are a strong candidate for the program.

How do I start writing my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Begin by brainstorming your ideas, interests, and experiences related to criminology and forensic science. Reflect on what sparked your interest in the field, any relevant coursework or projects you’ve undertaken, and your career aspirations. Create an outline to organize your thoughts, and then start writing your statement. Make sure to tailor your statement to the specific program you are applying to.

What should I include in my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Your personal statement should cover your motivation for studying criminology and forensic science, your relevant academic background and skills, any relevant work or volunteer experience, and your career goals. You should also highlight your personal qualities, such as teamwork and communication skills, and demonstrate your knowledge of the field.

How long should my criminology and forensic science personal statement be?

The length of your personal statement will depend on the specific requirements of the university or program you are applying to. Typically, it should be around one to two pages in length, with a clear and concise writing style. Make sure to check the application guidelines for specific word count or page length requirements.

How can I make my criminology and forensic science personal statement stand out?

To make your personal statement stand out, focus on showcasing your unique experiences, skills, and perspectives. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and demonstrate your passion for the field. Avoid clichés and generic statements, and instead, focus on what sets you apart from other applicants.

How do I edit and proofread my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Once you have written your personal statement, edit and proofread it carefully to ensure it is error-free and effective. Ask teachers, mentors, or peers to review your statement and provide feedback. Make sure to check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, as well as clarity and coherence.

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Table of Contents

• • What Is A Forensic Science Personal Statement?
• • Tips To Write A Successful Statement of Purpose
• • 3 Forensic Science Studies Personal Statement Samples
• • Conclusion

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Criminology Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
• Personal Statement Example 3
• Personal Statement Example 4
• Personal Statement Example 5

Are you considering a career in criminology? Writing a personal statement for a criminology course can be a daunting task. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of personal statement examples and a course overview.

Criminology is a field of study that examines the causes of crime and the way society responds to it. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology, psychology, law, and other social sciences to understand why people commit crimes and how to prevent them.

A criminology course typically covers topics such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods. Students learn about the history and development of criminology, the different types of crime, and the impact of crime on society. They also explore the various approaches to crime prevention and criminal justice.

When writing a personal statement for a criminology course, it is important to demonstrate your interest in the field and your commitment to learning. You should also explain why you are a good fit for the course. For example, you could mention your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field. You could also highlight any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.

Finally, you should explain why you are passionate about criminology and why you want to pursue a career in the field. Most importantly, show some personality and eagerness of getting a criminology course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy.

Law Enforcement: Graduates with a degree in criminology can pursue a career in law enforcement. This could include a career as a police officer, detective, or federal agent.

Corrections: Graduates can pursue a career in corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer.

Social Work: Graduates can pursue a career in social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker.

Criminal Justice Research: Graduates can pursue a career in criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant.

Victim Advocacy: Graduates can pursue a career in victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counselor.

Other Industries and Sectors: Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

Overall, a degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy. Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into a criminology course at a UK university, applicants must generally have achieved a minimum of a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree. This is the same as most other courses in the social sciences, and is the same entry criteria for many other courses in the UK.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants may also be asked to submit a personal statement and may be required to attend an admissions interview. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the course.

In terms of prerequisites, applicants may be asked to demonstrate knowledge of certain topics such as psychology, sociology, and law. This is to ensure that applicants have a basic understanding of the subject matter before they begin the course.

Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary background knowledge and experience to be successful in the course.

UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can vary greatly depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have. According to the National Careers Service, the median salary for a probation officer in the UK is £23,000 to £29,000 per year. Other roles such as police officers, forensic scientists, and prison officers have salaries ranging from £20,000 to £40,000 per year.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for criminology professionals is expected to increase in the coming years due to an aging population and the need for more crime prevention initiatives. Additionally, technology is playing an increasingly important role in crime investigation and prevention, leading to an increased demand for professionals with knowledge of the field.

Overall, the average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can range from £20,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Criminology include Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, and Law.

Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods to the investigation of crime. It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence to help solve crimes. It is a highly specialized field that requires a deep understanding of chemistry, biology, and other sciences. The key difference between Forensic Science and Criminology is that Forensic Science focuses on the scientific aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Criminal Justice is the study of the criminal justice system, including the roles of law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It examines the causes of crime, the impact of criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of criminal justice policies. The key difference between Criminal Justice and Criminology is that Criminal Justice focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Law is the study of legal systems , including the interpretation and application of laws. It examines the structure of the legal system, the principles of legal reasoning, and the impact of legal decisions. The key difference between Law and Criminology is that Law focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a Criminology course will vary depending on the university and the course structure. Generally, the course will cover a range of topics related to crime, criminal justice, and the criminal justice system. These topics may include:

• Crime and Society: This module will explore the relationship between crime, society, and culture. It will examine the causes of crime, the impact of crime on individuals and communities, and the different responses to crime.
• Criminological Theory: This module will explore the theories of crime and criminal behaviour. It will examine the different theories of crime causation and the implications of these theories for criminal justice policy and practice.
• Criminal Law: This module will explore the legal framework governing crime and criminal justice. It will examine the different types of offences, the elements of a criminal offence, and the defences available to an accused.
• Criminal Justice Process: This module will explore the criminal justice system, from the investigation of a crime to the sentencing of an offender. It will examine the roles of the police, prosecutors, defence lawyers, and judges in the criminal justice process.
• Research Methods: This module will explore the research methods used in criminology. It will examine different types of research designs, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.

In addition to these core modules, some Criminology courses may also include modules on topics such as policing, corrections, and crime prevention.

Alumni Network

One notable alumni from the course of Criminology is Dr. Roberta Iversen. Dr. Iversen is a professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina. She is a leading expert in the field of criminal justice and has authored numerous books, articles, and reports on the topic. She has also been a consultant for the United Nations, the World Bank, and the US Department of Justice.

Dr. Iversen is an active member of the criminology and criminal justice community, regularly speaking at conferences and workshops. She is also a member of the American Society of Criminology and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. She is currently working on a project to develop a global database of criminal justice research and data.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the University of South Carolina’s Alumni Association. These events include lectures, workshops, and networking events with other alumni, faculty, and staff. Additionally, the Alumni Association offers a variety of online resources, such as job postings, professional development opportunities, and mentoring programs.

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Personal Statement for Criminology Tips: With Helpful Examples

In this article, we discuss how to write a personal statement for criminology with helpful examples.

One student dreams of being an FBI officer and the other is fascinated by designing surveys. What do they have in common? Criminology will help both of them land their dream jobs. Read on for our top tips for writing a personal statement for criminology.

Table of contents, what is a personal statement for criminology, what should you consider when writing a personal statement for criminology, how to write an effective personal statement for criminology.

• Example 1 – A focus on academic achievement
• Example 2 – A focus on a professional goal

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

It’s a short essay that applicants of criminology programs submit when they apply for specific criminology courses at colleges or universities.

It helps applicants show their preparedness and convince the selection committee of their suitability to undertake the program.

The personal statement should include details of the applicant’s skills and strengths, motivations, career aspirations, and ability to contribute to the institute. It shows how the applicant stands out from other contenders.

1. Qualifications

To study criminology for an undergraduate (4-year) degree, applicants should generally have achieved a good GPA in High School and may be required to attend an admissions interview.

Furthermore, applicants may be asked to have achieved good grades in certain subjects such as psychology, sociology, and law. Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted and being able to use a computer is essential.

In order to ensure that applicants are well-prepared for a degree in criminology, they may also be expected to demonstrate knowledge of wider research, current affairs, and social, organizational, or global issues.

2. Motivation and interest in Criminology

It is important to consider motivation when writing a personal statement for criminology to show why you are interested in the field and what you plan to do with your degree.

Motivation can be personal, such as wanting to help people or make a difference in society, or professional, such as wanting to use your skills and experience to advance your career. You must be motivated to pursue this field to the best of your ability and use the knowledge you gain to benefit both yourself and society.

Motivation can include a commitment to research, a desire to solve problems, and a willingness to take on difficult tasks.

‘When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive.’

3. Life Experiences that relate to criminology

These could include:

• Family situations that involve law enforcement or the judiciary system. How have these experiences shaped your life and motivated you to pursue a criminology degree?

‘Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part-time job, volunteering and schoolwork. I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college-level classes’

• Personality traits that are suited to the intended career. Have you always been fascinated by the work of the police and the FBI?
• Do you have a relative or family friend that worked in law enforcement, social services or in the courts that you want to emulate?
• Talking about how psychology has had a direct impact on your life, such as having counselling sessions for anxiety and how this has given you the desire to work with people that have been affected by crime.

4. Background knowledge of criminology

It’s important to show an understanding of some elements of criminology. These could include some criminological research and theories or having an awareness of contemporary crime prevention strategies.

‘As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behavior.’

Being familiar with laws and criminal justice systems in your state, and an understanding of the ethical considerations applicable to criminology will be valuable to you.

During the application process, it is important to demonstrate that you have the following skills:

• written and verbal communication skills,
• critical reading and writing skills,
• technology and analysis skills,
• research and problem-solving skills,
• understanding of social, organizational and global issues,
• an awareness of current affairs on both a local and a global perspective.

Enhanced communication skills such as clarifying, listening and offering advice as well as the ability to gather and assess data and other information will help your application.

6. Experience

Think about your experiences in jobs, work experience, work placements, apprenticeships and any other relevant education or professional background.

Additionally, one should reflect on any current or past work in the criminal justice field, such as working in youth corrections.

Furthermore, it is important to consider any personal experiences that may have influenced the decision to pursue criminology, such as volunteering with victims or exposure to the criminal justice system.

Step 1: Talk about your qualifications

Discuss how your qualifications or current GPA specifically prepares you for a criminology degree.

Mention any other qualifications, volunteering positions or work experience you have that may be relevant.

Step 2: Explain why you chose criminology.

Show the reader your enthusiasm and knowledge of the field by providing evidence of your passion for the subject. This could include discussing your experience with law enforcement or the judicial system or providing examples of research on crime and criminal justice topics.

‘My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology.’

Your personal statement should include stories that highlight your experiences and explain how these contributed to your choice of a career in criminology. Make sure to connect your experiences and goals by emphasizing how they have helped shape your path.

Step 3: Share your knowledge of criminology and solving crime.

Show an intellectual interest in which authors, modules, theorists, and debates have interested you, and how they could help you with your criminology degree.

Demonstrate your knowledge of criminology by discussing the topics you’ve researched on your own. This could include specific theories, current events, or other relevant topics.

Step 5: Show your initiative and drive

Showing initiative and drive is important. You can do this by writing about your academic achievements, your extra-curricular activities, and any relevant work experience to show the review committee the level of commitment and dedication you have towards your chosen career path.

You should also include details of any wider research or current affairs you are interested in. This could include discussing how you understand local law enforcement and crime concerns and how they can be integrated into a larger global perspective, or mentioning articles or books you have read about your chosen field of study.

Step 6: Proofread and edit your personal statement before submitting it

Accuracy in grammar and spelling is of utmost importance when writing a personal statement for criminology. Good written communication skills are essential for this field of study, as they are necessary for understanding, interpreting and critically analyzing any given data.

These communication skills also have a direct impact on the overall impression of a written statement, as a document full of errors can create a negative impression and make it appear as though the author is sloppy or not careful enough. In addition, as criminology is a field that requires much research and problem solving, attention to detail is critical for any successful analysis.

Examples from winning personal statements for Criminology

Example 1 – a focus on academic achievement.

Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part time job, volunteering and schoolwork. With a 4.0 GPA, I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college classes. I was also fortunate enough to learn about the law, criminal justice system, and how the court process works when my sister obtained an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Chelmhurst College – she jokes that I spent more time reading her notes and textbooks than she did! I am committed to a career in criminal justice research and have already volunteered on two projects undertaken by the state office, working on collating survey data relating to local crime.

My ambition has always been to work in Criminology, and I am confident in my ability to remain dedicated and professional. My academic and professional achievements have set me up to be an ideal student for a degree in Criminology. When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive. I want to be a big part of better understanding and lowering crime rates in my state through well-designed research projects that connect with the citizens we are working hard to protect.

Example 2 – a focus on a professional goal

My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology. As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use of theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behaviour. I was fascinated by the process of researching and analyzing data from crime statistics, identifying patterns, and coming to logical conclusions.

Working on interviews and other investigative techniques to gain insights into criminal mindsets and motivations will, I hope, make me a better FBI officer in the future and develop my sense of compassion for people trapped in challenging situations, as both the victims and perpetrators of crime. I have strong communication skills and am a team player, which I believe will fit well with the ethos of Milwaukee College.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What is Criminology?

Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, consequences, and control. It examines the legal and social aspects of crime, as well as the social, economic, and political factors that influence it.

It also looks into the various theories and approaches used to explain criminal behaviour and the effectiveness of various strategies used to control it. Furthermore, it considers the ethical issues related to criminal justice, such as the rights of victims and offenders, and the impact of crime on society.

By studying criminology, students can gain a better understanding of the criminal justice system, the causes of crime, and the ways in which it can be prevented and controlled.

What kind of career can be achieved with a Criminology degree?

With a degree in criminology, a wide range of career aspirations can be achieved.

• Law enforcement, such as a police officer, detective, or federal agent;
• Corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer;
• Social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker;
• Criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant;
• Victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counsellor.
• Forensic psychology, forensic accounting, and cybercrime.

What traits are needed to be successful in Criminology?

Criminology is an exciting and challenging field which requires a range of skills and qualities to be successful. These include:

• Dedication: Being dedicated to the study of criminology and its related fields, and having a strong commitment to learning.
• Reliability: Being dependable and able to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Concentration: Having the ability to focus intently and pay attention to detail.
• Professionalism: Being able to ethically and responsibly handle sensitive matters.
• Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing environments and quickly respond to issues as they arise.
• Compassion: Being able to empathize with others, understand their views and opinions, and provide necessary assistance.

What kind of research should I do to write a personal statement for Criminology?

• Review the Course Overview and Requirements: Research the topics that will be covered in the course, such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods.
• Identify Your Interests: Think about why you are interested in Criminology and what experiences or skills you can bring to the course. Consider your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field, and any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.
• Collect Evidence: Collect evidence to support your personal statement. This could include academic qualifications, recommendations, and any other evidence that shows your commitment to the field of Criminology.
• Brainstorm and Outline: Create an outline of your personal statement. Brainstorm ideas and develop a strong thesis statement that outlines why you would be a good fit for the course and why you are passionate about Criminology.
• Write and Edit: Once you have outlined your personal statement, it’s time to write and edit. Make sure to review your statement for grammar, spelling, and clarity and get feedback.

What should a Criminology personal statement include?

A Criminology personal statement should include information about the applicant’s interest in and knowledge of the field of Criminology, as well as their skills, experiences, and achievements in relation to the subject. It should also include their future ambitions and plans for contributing to society through their study of Criminology. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate their ability to research, their ability to work with others, and their readiness for the degree course.

In order to make their personal statement unique, applicants should start the essay with a personal experience, carefully curate the most relevant points, use storytelling instead of making formal statements, use simple language, and personalize the essay.

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Criminology Personal Statement Example

Writing a Criminology personal statement and don’t know how to start? You can use our Criminology personal statement example as an inspiration and guide to perfect your own when applying through UCAS .

In my experience, I have always been able to tell when people are lying and find out the truth. Reading about forensic psychologists in prisons and discovering Criminology, I became convinced that my talents could be best utilized as a Forensic Psychologist within the criminal justice system.

In order to fulfill my ambition and become a prison service psychologist, I intend to study Criminology at the Masters’s level. Besides History and German, I also studied Film and Sociology at A-Level. The linguistic skills I acquired at school will be valuable when I discuss psychological issues with prisoners. Due to its proximity to Criminology, Sociology was my favourite subject. Throughout the course, I learned about societal attitudes toward criminals and punishment methods that I can apply to my degree.

Throughout my studies, I have held a variety of jobs. As a waitress at a very popular restaurant venue, I developed excellent teamwork skills and learned how to keep a level head under pressure. With three jobs and my studies, I have managed to juggle my time at London South Bank. Over the course of nearly two years, I worked at the O2 centre as a customer service representative.

Additionally, I used my German language skills as a German Market Researcher for MPeurope, conducting numerous telephone interviews with consumers each day to meet research goals. I learned how to convey complex information in a clear and confident manner, a skill that will be useful when I present and give seminars about the degree.

It has required exceptional time management and organizational skills to juggle three jobs and study. Many events at school were organized by me as a result of my teachers recognizing my organizational skills early on. As a student, I enjoyed playing competitive basketball at school, and I hope to join the university’s female basketball team.

To improve my knowledge of Criminology outside of school and the workplace, I enjoy reading books on the subject. Having read the Oxford Handbook of Criminology religiously, I became convinced that I wanted to work in prisons after reading the chapters prisons. Roger Matthews’ book Doing Time, an Introduction to the Sociology of Imprisonment, and Michel Foucault’s Discipline and Punish have taught me about changing attitudes toward punishment in Europe over the past three centuries.

Travelling with friends to new places and learning about new cultures is also one of my favourite things to do. I know how enriching it is to be part of a multicultural environment. On the course, I hope to befriend people of many different backgrounds and organise trips abroad with them.

For, I feel duty-bound to take advantage of every opportunity university life will offer me since I am the first member of my family to go to university and have chances that were not available to my parents. I feel ready and prepared to complete my studies and start my career as a psychologist within the prison service.

Criminology Personal Statement

A criminology personal statement is a part of your UCAS application and is sent to all of the criminology courses you are applying to. The goal is to convince the admission staff that you are the perfect candidate to study Criminology, and it should be very personal. Write about your interests, college, your apprenticeship, your motivations, and the reason you want to study Criminology at university.

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Criminology and Forensic Science BSc Personal Statement

• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 24th March 2024
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My fascination with the intricate workings of criminal justice and forensic science began with a curious mind and a voracious appetite for detective novels during my early teenage years. The transition from consuming fictional narratives to developing a profound interest in the real-world application of forensic science and criminology was gradual but firm. I found myself moving from novels to academic journals, documentaries, and case studies, each fostering a growing interest in understanding crime from both a societal and scientific perspective. This dual fascination has led me down an academic and extracurricular path tailored towards gaining a comprehensive understanding of these fields. Therefore, the decision to pursue a BSc in Criminology and Forensic Science represents a natural and deliberate culmination of my interests and academic pursuits.

The Criminology and Forensic Science degree intrigues me because it offers an integrated approach to studying both the theoretical underpinnings of crime and the practical, scientific techniques employed in crime scene investigation. This blend ensures a holistic education, preparing students for the multifaceted challenges faced within the criminal justice system. The course’s focus on combining criminological theories with hands-on forensic science practice aligns perfectly with my desire to engage deeply with both aspects of the field.

The opportunity for significant laboratory experience, particularly in analytical chemistry, DNA analysis, and fibre examination, is particularly appealing. These skills are not just academically satisfying but vital for a career in forensic science, allowing one to make informed, evidence-based contributions to criminal investigations. The prospect of a one-year placement within the scientific field further accentuates the course’s appeal, offering invaluable real-world experience and a chance to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. Such experiences not only enhance learning but also significantly improve employability upon graduation.

Beyond the academic allure, my involvement in varied activities has significantly shaped my perspective on crime and forensics. One particular project that stands out is my volunteering with “Second Chances,” a community initiative focused on rehabilitating young offenders through education and skill development workshops. I actively participated in organising weekly literacy classes and vocational training sessions, which aimed to equip these individuals with the tools necessary for social reintegration. Witnessing the transformation of some participants, who moved from a path of potential re-offending to pursuing further education and employment, underscored the profound impact of rehabilitation over retribution. This experience offered me a nuanced understanding of the societal facets of criminology and the critical role of community in the reformation process.

Furthermore, my involvement in a local project, “Forensic Fun Days,” aimed at raising public awareness about the role of science in solving crimes, deepened my appreciation for forensic science. We organised interactive workshops for high school students, demonstrating basic forensic techniques such as fingerprinting, basic DNA analysis, and the importance of trace evidence. Designing a mock crime scene investigation challenge, where participants used these techniques to solve a staged crime, not only piqued their interest in forensic science but also illustrated the meticulous attention to detail and analytical rigor required in the field. These experiences have not only reinforced my interest in the intersection of criminology and forensic science but have also taught me the importance of integrating social solutions with punitive measures, a philosophy strongly reflected in the course’s focus on alternatives to custodial sentencing.

Simultaneously, my participation in science clubs and fairs throughout my high school years honed my analytical and inquiry skills, setting a solid foundation for the forensic science component of the degree. Organising a local science fair project that used simple chemical analysis to highlight the concept of trace evidence in criminal investigations reinforced my interest in forensics and underscored the profound impact scientific techniques can have on solving crimes.

These projects, among others, have enriched my understanding of the multidimensional nature of crime and its impact on individuals and society. They have instilled in me a belief in the power of education, rehabilitation, and community involvement in addressing the roots of criminal behavior, laying a foundation for my future studies and career aspirations in criminology and forensic science.

Furthermore, my decision was influenced by the remarkable achievements of the Applied Sciences Department, particularly in forensic science, which is ranked highly for teaching quality and student experience. This, combined with the course’s accreditation by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences , assures me of receiving education that is not only of high calibre but also recognised and respected within the industry.

As I look towards my future, I am animated by the possibility of contributing to the field of forensic science, applying scientific principles to aid the pursuit of justice. My ultimate ambition is to work on cold cases, applying contemporary forensic techniques to solve long-standing, unresolved investigations. The interdisciplinary nature of this course, combining criminological insights with rigorous scientific training, is exactly what I need to equip myself with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to achieve this goal.

In conclusion, my passion for understanding the dynamics of crime, coupled with a keen interest in the scientific processes behind forensic investigations, makes me an ideal candidate for the BSc in Criminology and Forensic Science. I am eager to immerse myself in this course, confident that it will pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in bridging the gap between criminological theories and forensic science application.

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• Personal Statements
• Forensic Science Personal Statement

Forensic Science Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

I have always been interested in science-based subjects and how they can be put to practical use in our daily lives. I also have a strong interest in crime related television programmes and real life crime cases. It is for this reason that I wish to undertake the formal study of Forensic Science.

One of the areas that I am most interested in is how genetic fingerprinting is used to identify suspects in criminal cases. I look forward to gaining further knowledge in this area and getting the chance to develop my laboratory skills and being part of a team working to solve a crime.

Not only am I interested in the biological aspect of crime solving but I am also fascinated by the workings of the human mind and what drives people to commit crimes. With this in mind I studied Psychology and Sociology at college so that I could better understand the criminal psyche.

During my time at school I held a number of responsible roles including being Head Girl, Chair of the Young Enterprise scheme, and Leader of the Student Parliament. As well as teaching me to communicate effectively I also developed teamwork skills, problem solving abilities, and learnt to use my initiative when faced with a new challenge.

Outside of school I volunteer for my local hospital radio station which involves hosting an evening radio show, taking phone calls from listeners, and collecting song requests from hospital patients.

I also enjoy reading factual books around the subject of Forensic Science and criminal psychology including ‘Fundamentals of Forensic Science’ by Academic Press and Dennis Howitt’s ‘Forensic and Criminal Psychology’.

I hope that by studying Forensic Science to the highest level will enable me to achieve the qualifications and skills I need to gain an entry level role as a laboratory assistant.

After this I hope to work my way up the career ladder and be part of a team solving crimes and helping to bring criminals to justice. I am also considering the possibility of undertaking a MSc after completing my undergraduate degree.

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A Guide to Writing A Criminology Personal Statement

Table of Contents

If you are interested in criminology, it’s about time you pursue your dream. Take a step by applying for a career course in any reputable institution. Sending out your application is not enough. You need to include a compelling personal statement. The criminology degree personal statement examples below is an excellent guide.

A personal statement allows you to market your skills and highlight your qualifications. If you have no idea how to write a personal statement, you’ll find some good samples in this article that will guide you. 

What Is A Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a document that expresses your reason for wanting to study criminology and describes any relevant experience or skills you have. Writing a personal criminology statement can be pretty tricky, but you must include all the relevant information about yourself.

In your statement, highlight your academic achievements and experience in the field of criminology. Explain your interest and motivation in studying criminology and detail what you’ll do after graduation.

Criminology Degree Personal Statement Examples

I am interested in studying criminology as it is a fascinating field that combines elements of psychology, sociology, and law. I want to gain an in-depth understanding of criminal behavior and the factors that contribute to it to help reduce crime rates. My previous academic achievements demonstrate my ability to engage with complex theoretical concepts. Studying Criminology at university will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this area. Through volunteering work experience, I have gained knowledge of how the criminal justice system operates, which has further cemented my interest in this topic.

My name is Megan Skye, and I am interested in studying criminology. I first became aware of this field when I was working as a psychiatric nurse and saw the link between mental health and crime. Since then, I have become increasingly fascinated by why people commit crimes and what can be done to prevent them.

I know that criminology is a necessary discipline, not just for understanding crime but also for developing effective strategies to tackle it. This is something that inspires me to continue learning about it. In my current role as an A&E nurse, I frequently see the consequences of crime on individuals. So I am keen to learn more about how we can address this issue from a wider perspective.

I got interested in criminology through the media. This was because of the broadcast messages about crimes that happened all over the world. I was displeased that people could go to any length to commit certain crimes.

Is there a reason why they derive pleasure from committing crimes? Are there people who are born criminals? How can we reduce the rate of crime in society? As these questions filled my mind, I took an interest in certain crime stories. I once volunteered in my community. And that experience equipped me to communicate with the public and criminology requires one to be good with the public. I have leadership skills that will make me successful in this field.

When I was younger, I loved watching detective shows on TV. The mystery and puzzle-solving always appealed to me. And as I got older, I began to see the criminal justice system in a new light. Seeing how crimes are investigated and criminals brought to justice has sparked my interest in criminology. A field that combines psychology, law, sociology, and investigative skills. 

Obtaining a Criminology degree will allow me to understand crime from all angles; its causes, effects on society and potential prevention methods. I would also like to gain practical experience through work placements with Police forces or similar organizations involved in crime prevention/investigation. This course of study is the perfect next step for me: it is both stimulating intellectually and offers plenty of scope for personal growth.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a police officer. However, over time I realized that I was more interested in why people commit crimes than in catching criminals. This led me to enroll in an online criminology and criminal justice course. 

I have enjoyed learning about crime and the criminal justice system. My favorite module so Far has been juvenile delinquency, which looked at why young people break the law. In addition to my studies, I also work as a volunteer with young offenders trying to help them stay away from crime. 

Studying for a criminology degree will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this field. Ultimately, I hope to work within law enforcement or social work, helping offenders in rehabilitation.

I have always been interested in how societies work and why people commit crimes. This interest led me to study criminology at university, where I developed an understanding of the complexities behind criminal behavior. The course has given me a strong foundation in the theories and methods used by researchers in this field. I am keen to continue my studies and further develop my knowledge of criminology, aiming to become a researcher one day.

My fascination in criminology was born from my exposure to new ideas and contrasting ideologies surrounding crime and justice. After spending time immersed in this field, I am drawn to the notion that there is no single approach to tackling criminal activity. It is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions.

My current aim is to pursue a master’s degree in criminology. This is to develop a further understanding of both classical theories about crime and recent advancements within the discipline. Ultimately, I hope to play a role in shaping future policymaking around issues such as law enforcement, rehabilitation, and victim support services. This is while maintaining close collaboration with academics who are leaders within this field. In addition, working alongside those on the frontline will give me invaluable insight into how these policies impact those directly affected by crime daily.

A personal statement is a document in which you describe your reasons for wanting to study criminology and highlight your academic and professional qualifications. A criminology personal statement also shows off your knowledge of the criminal justice system and why you are interested in studying it.

When writing your statement, highlight any relevant experience or skills that could make you a valuable asset to any criminology program. With a well-written personal statement, you can achieve your career goal just like you desire.

The criminology degree personal statement examplesabove were generated using Hey INK . Why not try it out?

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Personal statement examples criminology personal statements.

Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto criminology and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

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• Forensic Psychology Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Forensic Psychology. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

Since completing my Bachelors degree in Psychology, I have been determined to further develop my knowledge of human behaviour and motivation, and to find an application for my skills that would have a tangible, positive effect on the lives of those around me. I was excited to discover your Forensic Psychology MSc, as I believe it will equip me with the skills necessary to make a real impact within the criminal justice system.

My interest in crime and punishment was ignited when I participated in a prison listener scheme run by the Samaritans during my final year of university. I took hundreds of calls from prison inmates and staff who were struggling to cope and developed gained a concerning insight into the often-overlooked psychological distress experienced by so many within the prison system.

I also volunteered with the UK government’s Independent Monitoring Board, which involved assessing day-to-day living standards at my local prison and speaking with prisoners and staff to deeper understand their experiences. I greatly appreciated the opportunity to contribute to the Board’s monthly reports, which are used to inform local and national government policy.

In my final year at university, I completed a module in Criminal Psychology, which allowed me to appreciate the how complex the causes and consequences of criminal behaviour are. An aspect of the module that particularly interested (and frustrated) me was learning about the frequency of re-offending, and the shortcomings within rehabilitative services that often lead to it.

My voluntary experience within the prison system, combined with my understanding of Psychology have convinced me that a career as a Forensic Psychologist would be the most impactful way to apply my experience, passion, and knowledge. I am particularly interested in working with prisoners at risk of re-offending and was drawn to the module on this course focusing on rehabilitation and risk assessment, as well the option to gain practical experience within parole services.

It is my strong belief that though a crucial moral shift away from punishment and towards prevention and rehabilitation has been taking place for some time, it has not yet gone far enough. I believe that the field of Forensic Psychology places a crucial role in facilitating this societal change. In the future, I hope to apply my new-found expertise to helping break that cycle of crime, punishment and re-offending that is the cause of so much avoidable suffering.

Forensic Psychology - MSc

Newcastle university school of psychology, forensic psychology msc, nottingham trent university school of social sciences, forensic psychology (msc), university of derby college of health, psychology and social care, msc applied forensic psychology, edinburgh napier university school of applied sciences, msc - forensic psychology, birmingham city university faculty of business, law and social sciences, find a masters in forensic psychology.

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Personal Statement - Forensic Science

I have always loved the world of science, had an interest in solving puzzles and looking for details hidden in a bigger picture. Forensic science combines all of those interests. I also find it more interesting than other lab jobs as it contains parts of a mystery and riddle solving. My affinity for this field of science started when I was 12. On the TV I saw a programme about crimes and work of forensic scientists. It all seemed to be very exciting so I looked into it. After getting more into the subject, I realised that reality is far different from the TV fiction. However, it did not discourage me. I got interested in it even more after learning what this job really is about. I like static kind of work that requires analytic eye and good sight to spot details. Every time I have to work with a microscope or do any lab related procedure I am in my element. It fascinates me how much we can deduct from just a small sample. We can tell what kind of tissue, material or fibre it is, establish its origin or search for answers regarding who used it, touched it or whose DNA it is. It fascinates me how this field combines biology – blood analysis, finding and interpreting DNA found in hair or skin bits, with chemistry – toxicology, drug analyzation or examining various samples like fibre, a piece of material or glass. I am also thrilled about other aspects of this job, visiting crime scenes and presenting evidence in a courtroom. I have gained experience in laboratory work by attending extracurricular biology. During these classes I have been conducting experiments, making preparations to inspect under a microscope and doing the analysis of my findings. It was my first touch with doing an actual science work. It has resulted in developing my technical skills and gave me basics of laboratory techniques. I took part in laboratory classes at some of the top universities, which were University of Wroclaw and University of Life Sciences in Wroclaw, in Poland as well. Those included work in microbiology, genetics and biochemistry labs. This helped me to get in touch with more advanced lab equipment than at school and showed me how university classes look like. In summer of 2016, I have got my first job, which I continue to do part time. I work in a rehabilitation centre as a receptionist. Thanks to this job I have developed my organisation skills and learnt how to manage my time in an efficient way so I can always meet the deadline. One of my responsibilities is to schedule appointments for patients. Therefore I have a constant touch with people. It requires me to be communicative and has the problem-solving ability as people come there with various problems and questions. By having to work among other people, I have advanced my teamwork skills. Although I am aware that forensic science is a very competitive field nowadays, I am motivated enough to make the best out of time spent at your university to become a specialist in my field and be a wanted worker for many employers. I try to keep up with the newest science discoveries both in an area of biology and chemistry. I am doing that by reading online articles and a Polish popular science magazine called “Swiat wiedzy”. I consider myself a person who likes to stand up to a challenge. Studying is a big challenge itself, but studying in a foreign country is even a greater one. New experiences make me shiver with excitement, hence I cannot wait to start this one. To become a student will be the most significant in my life so far. I know it also will not be the easiest but my determination ensures I will not give up and make my dreams come true.

Universities Applied to: University of Lincoln (Forensic Science) - Offer De Montfort University (Forensic Science) - Offer Nottingham Trent University (Forensic Science) Coventry University (Forensic Science) - Offer Northumbria University (Forensic Science) - Offer

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Criminal Psychology vs. Forensic Psychology: Key Differences

The public is only growing more interested in the psychology of crime and of the justice system—but this fascination certainly isn’t new. 1

Perhaps that’s why interest in criminal and forensic psychology careers is also on the rise. Not to mention that working in the criminal justice system can offer a sense of fulfillment or higher purpose. If you’re interested in learning more about this field, start with the basics: like the differences between criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology.

In this guide, we’re exploring the distinctions and offering a birds-eye view of both careers. While criminal psychology primarily concerns the motivations of criminals and forensic psychology is applied more generally throughout the justice system, these definitions are only the tip of the iceberg.

Read on for a complete comparison of forensic psychology vs. criminal psychology.

What is Criminal Psychology?

Let’s start with criminal psychology; there’s more to this career than what’s depicted in popular media.

The Primary Focus of Criminal Psychology

Criminal psychologists seek to assess, understand, and (potentially) diagnose people who have committed crimes. 2 The justice system calls upon criminal psychologists to:

Supply legal experts with a window into criminals’ psyches so that they can render judgments as fairly as possible

• Clinically evaluate suspected and convicted criminals
• Assemble data that can help prevent future crimes
• These are just three of the many professional tasks criminal psychologists often undertake.

Roles and Responsibilities

To paint a clearer picture of the criminal psychology field, let’s dive into some of the day-to-day responsibilities of people working in this role:

• Researching – Researching and understanding historical and contemporary data helps criminal psychologists create criminal profiles, identify trends, and provide expertise to legal professionals.
• Serving as an expert witness – Criminal psychologists are often called to the witness stand in a courtroom to provide expertise and psychological assessments of suspected criminals.
• Interfacing with people – Criminal psychologists may sometimes interview criminals (or the people close to them) to get a feel for their personalities and habits.
• Compiling reports and presentations – By assembling their data (e.g., crime scene analysis and interview material) into digestible reports, criminal psychologists can share their findings with relevant authorities, legal experts, or the public.
• Contributing to predictive work – Criminal psychologists often use their criminal profiling expertise, data, observations, and theoretical knowledge to predict future crimes, potentially giving law enforcement the opportunity to intervene.

In short, a criminal psychologist’s job is to help law enforcement and justice workers understand criminals, make judgements fairly, and prevent future crimes against the public.

Cases and Work Environments

Criminal psychologists may work on both civil and criminal cases; they might also be permanently retained by law enforcement to provide general expertise.

For these reasons, there are a few potential work environments where you might find a criminal psychologist on staff:

• The justice system – Attorneys, judges, parole/probation workers, and other justice system experts often partner with criminal psychologists to build a comprehensive understanding of criminals.
• Law enforcement – Since they have expertise in crime scene and data analysis, criminal psychologists often work for law enforcement agencies.
• Non-profit organizations – Organizations that offer legal aid to accused criminals or victims of crimes may employ a criminal psychologist for advocacy support.
• Education – Many veteran clinical psychologists retire from the field to contribute to education efforts—training the next generation of criminal psychologists or spreading awareness about the field among students.

What is Forensic Psychology? 

On the other hand, there’s forensic psychology. Let’s dive into the specifics of this career track.

The Primary Focus of Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychologists are experts in mental health, human behavior, and the criminal justice system. 3 They use their skills and training to:

• Assess evidence
• Identify behavioral patterns
• Develop evidence-based reports and action plans
• Interface with the public and people facing the justice system
• Understand patients’ or subjects’ actions and motivations

Compared to clinical psychology, forensic psychology is a slightly broader field. Instead of specifically exploring criminals (and data relevant to criminals), forensic psychologists can be more general psychological advisors to the justice system as a whole. 4

What does a forensic psychologist do ? Forensic psychologists often:

• Contribute to courtroom trials – Like criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists often serve as expert witnesses in court cases.
• Work directly with people facing justice – Forensic psychologists can work directly with accused and convicted criminals as advocates or advisors.
• Advise governmental departments and other organizations – Forensic psychologists may contribute their expertise to law enforcement matters, legal aid organizations, correctional institutions, parole/probation systems, and other justice-related institutions.
• Contribute to policy making – Forensic psychologists with experience may create internal policies and regulations for large organizations (like justice-related non-profits).

Some forensic psychologists take on roles that are more similar to criminal psychologist specialties: crime scene analysis, predictive work, and law enforcement.

Like criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists may contribute to both criminal and civil cases.

However, forensic psychologists work in much broader contexts; you might find a forensic psychologist on staff in:

• Law enforcement agencies
• Local, state, or federal justice systems
• Organizations advocating for accused criminals, victims, or incarcerated people
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Parole/probation offices
• Foster care or child protection systems and organizations

Since forensic psychologists are experts on human behavior in relation to the justice system as a whole (and not just accused and convicted criminals’ behavior specifically), their skills are applicable to a wider range of justice-related careers.

Key Differences Between Criminal and Forensic Psychology 

While we’ve touched on some differences between criminal psychology vs. forensic psychology, let’s explore a few others—starting with educational requirements.

While both criminal and forensic psychologists can take on more clinically-focused roles (which may require licensure), educational requirements more closely depend on your chosen career path:

• Criminal psychologists primarily work with accused and convicted criminals. Since they fill a highly specific niche, many jobs require candidates to complete a bachelor’s degree program, a master’s program, and a doctoral program—either a PhD or PsyD degree program. 5
• Forensic psychologists work in a broader variety of roles, so forensic psychology degree requirements vary by specific career track. While you may not need to pursue licensure, a graduate degree, or a doctoral degree to work for a non-profit organization, government employment may pose more rigorous requirements. 6

As we’ve explored above, forensic psychologists and criminal psychologists often take on very different roles both within and outside of the justice system. While criminal psychologists often pursue careers related to criminal interactions specifically (which often translates to law enforcement employment), forensic psychologists can embrace a law enforcement career, work in other government systems, or pursue advocacy work.

In short, these differences come down to each career’s approach to interacting with the justice system: criminal psychologists’ work is mostly related to criminal activity and behavior while forensic psychology also seeks to more broadly contribute to the justice system as a whole.

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Similarities Between Criminal and Forensic Psychology 

Clearly, there is some overlap between both of these careers:

• Both may require licensure – Both forensic and criminal psychologists may pursue licenses to practice psychology. Such licenses typically require completion of a master’s in forensic behavioral science or a related discipline.
• Both can contribute to law enforcement and justice efforts – Both criminal and forensic psychologists have the training necessary to support law enforcement functions, like assessing evidence to better understand human behavior in an investigation.
• Both pursue an understanding of behavior in a justice context – Since both criminal and forensic psychologists seek to understand how people’s behavior impacts their interactions with the justice system, they share a primary goal. As such, they may use some of the same methodologies to learn more about their subjects, draw conclusions, and contribute to action plans.

Career Paths in Criminal Psychology 

If you’re considering a career in criminal psychology, the following positions may be of interest to you: 7

• Crime analyst
• Criminal profiler
• Expert witness
• Consultant to a law firm
• Victim or defendant advocate
• Case manager

Once you’ve gained some experience in the field, you may be eligible to pursue more advanced careers like:

• Supervising psychologist
• Law enforcement leadership positions
• Policymaking or legislative work
• Criminal psychology educator

Additionally, there are a few ways for criminal psychologists to advance in their careers:

• Supervised work – Whether you’re trying to pursue licensure to practice psychology or simply looking for tips from seasoned pros, working under the supervision of a more experienced criminal psychologist can offer professional development opportunities.
• Continuing education – If you started working as a clinical psychologist without a doctoral degree, for instance, completing an additional degree program or pursuing licensure could offer a track to promotion.
• Accruing experience – Since criminal psychology is a hands-on, people-focused career, experience may be a prerequisite for many advanced positions.

We also have guides on how to become a criminal profiler or how to become a crime analyst if you’re interested in these related jobs.

Career Paths in Forensic Psychology 

With training in forensic psychology, you might qualify for one of the following positions: 8

• Correctional counselor
• Forensic social worker
• Child welfare advocate
• Correctional or rehabilitation clinical psychologist

More advanced careers in this field include:

• Legislative or regulatory leadership roles
• Leadership careers in law enforcement, the justice system, or non-profit groups
• Forensic psychology educator

Like criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists typically move up in their careers by pursuing advanced education and professional development, getting more experience, and working under those in leadership roles.

Deepen Your Knowledge at Alliant 

In short, the key difference between forensic psychology vs. criminal psychology is scope—while forensic psychologists work to understand a wide variety of players in the justice system, criminal psychologists are mostly focused on criminal behavior.

No matter which career catches your eye, you’ll need to start with a high-quality degree program like the Alliant International University MS in Forensic Behavioral Science . This degree track is designed specifically for future psychologists working in law enforcement, the justice system, and related industries.

Our curriculum is hands-on and allows students to specialize in specific concentrations that interest them: professional protection, forensic victimology , trial consulting, and more. Our faculty is also composed of experienced experts in the field, and our instructors use the most up-to-date data and theoretical principles to train the next generation of psychologists.

Learn more about our psychology graduate admissions and apply today.

• Lettieri, Richard. “Why Are We So Interested in Crime Stories?” Psychology Today. September 4, 2021. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/decoding-madness/202109/why-are… Accessed June 25, 2024.
• “Law and Crime.” Psychology Today. 2024. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/law-and-crime . Accessed June 25, 2024.
• Tobin, James. “How to Become a Forensic Psychologist.” Psychology.org. April 11, 2024. https://www.psychology.org/careers/forensic-psychologist/ . Accessed June 26, 2024.
• “What Is Forensic Psychology?” American Academy of Forensic Psychology. 2024. https://aafpforensic.org/ . Accessed June 27, 2024. 
• “What Is Criminal Psychology? How to Begin Your Career.” Careers in Psychology. 2023. https://careersinpsychology.org/criminal-psychology-careers/ . Accessed July 27, 2024. 
• "What Can You Do With a Criminal Psychology Degree? 10 Career Fields.” Indeed. March 10, 2023. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-you-do-with… . Accessed June 27, 2024.
• “10 Top Career Paths in Forensic Psychology.” Psychology Degree Guide. May 11, 2021. https://psychologydegreeguide.org/resources/careers-in-forensic-psychol… . Accessed June 27, 2024. 

Diana M. Concannon

Dean and Associate Professor, California School of Forensic Studies

Diana M. Concannon, PsyD, is Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships at Alliant International University, Associate Professor at the...

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Understanding The Role Of A Criminal Psychologist

You may have seen movies and TV shows where criminal psychologists work to solve crimes through criminal profiling and intense interrogations. If so, you may be surprised to learn that the term “criminal psychologist” can actually refer to multiple jobs—and in real life, none of them are quite like they might seem on TV. So what does it really mean to be a criminal psychologist? What do criminal psychologists focus on? We’ll explore these questions below.

Criminal psychology vs. criminology vs. forensic psychology 

Criminal psychology can be a confusing field to understand due to terminology. In actuality, the term “criminal psychology” is rarely used officially in the US . When someone uses the title “criminal psychologist,” they may be referring to one of two professions: criminologist or forensic psychologist. 

Both forensic psychologists and criminologists focus on crime and criminal behavior, but they typically play different roles in the criminal justice system. Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between them. 

Criminology

Criminology is the broad study of crime and how it relates to society and law. Criminologists work to answer questions like: 

• Why was a crime committed?
• How can crimes be prevented?
• How do the environment and relationships of someone who committed a crime contribute to their behavior? 
• How effective is the current legal system at reducing crime? 

Criminology often takes a broad look at the causes and effects of crime. That said, in recent decades, the field has also started to include other specializations . Some examples include:

• Victimology. Victimology is the study of the survivors of crime. It often focuses on the relationship between survivors and criminal offenders and the effects that experiencing a crime can have on people. 
• Toxicology. Toxicology is the study of poisons. Forensic toxicologists often focus on how different poisons are used to commit crimes. 
• DNA study. In criminology, those who specialize in this sub-field often focus on the role that DNA from skin, hair, or blood can play in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. 
• Fingerprint analysis. Fingerprint analysis is the study of fingerprints. Like DNA, fingerprints may play a role in investigations and law enforcement.  

Criminologists are often required to have a bachelor’s degree. Some study criminology specifically, but some may major in a related field like sociology or criminal justice. Certain areas of focus may require degrees in other subjects. For example, a toxicology specialist might need a degree in biology, forensic science, or chemistry. 

Forensic psychologists

Forensic psychologists are trained psychologists who assist with legal matters. A forensic psychologist might work with lawyers, law enforcement officers, and others to answer questions like: 

• Is a person who committed a crime mentally able to stand trial? 
• Were they experiencing a mental illness when they committed their crime?
• Was a confession given by a suspect real, or were they pressured into it? 
• Is a person convicted of a certain crime likely to commit another?
• What were the psychological effects of a certain crime on the survivor(s)? 

Forensic psychology tends to focus more on specific crimes rather than crime as a whole. Depending on their role in the legal process, a forensic psychologist might :

• Testify in court about the mental state of someone who committed a crime or of a survivor
• Gather information about the people involved in a crime in the form of police reports and witness statements
• Perform psychological assessments on the people involved in a crime
• Give expert opinions in civil suits, like child custody cases

Forensic psychologists are often required to have a master’s degree or doctorate in psychology. In the US, they are usually also required to have a license to practice psychology . 

The mental health of criminal psychologists

Given how much time they may spend analyzing other people, it can be easy to overlook the mental health of criminal psychologists themselves. In reality, criminologists and forensic psychologists may face their own mental health concerns related to their jobs. For example, those who work long hours may be at a greater risk of chronic stress. Chronic stress may contribute to other mental illnesses, like anxiety and depression. Burnout, a state of intense emotional and physical exhaustion, may also be a risk for criminal psychologists. 

Working closely with people who have certain personality disorders, like antisocial personality disorder , may be a risk factor for mental health challenges and conditions in forensic psychologists, too. In addition, some criminal psychologists may be vulnerable to vicarious trauma, which can affect those who work closely with trauma survivors or are exposed to images and stories of trauma as part of their job. 

Vicarious trauma can cause symptoms like :

• Feeling emotionally numb or hopeless
• Having trouble managing emotions
• Losing interest in relationships and activities
• Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs
• Experiencing muscle aches, fatigue, or frequent illness
• Experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

If you work in criminal justice and you’re concerned about your own mental health, you might want to consider working with a therapist. A trained provider can offer a safe place for you to explore emotions related to your work, identify healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. 

That said, it can sometimes take a few tries to find a therapist you trust and connect with. This process can be time-consuming, especially if you work long hours as part of your job. Online therapy may make it easier. Platforms like BetterHelp match you with a licensed therapist and let you change therapists at any time, for any reason, at no additional cost. 

Studies suggest that online therapy can be an effective treatment for mental health concerns that criminal psychologists may face, like burnout and stress. For example, a 2021 study looked at 63 medical residents experiencing high levels of stress and burnout. They participated in a three-month, internet-based psychological intervention. The findings suggest that the online program improved their levels of emotional exhaustion, depression, and anxiety . 

When people refer to “criminal psychologists,” they may be referring to either criminologists or forensic psychologists. A criminologist is someone who studies crime, its effects, and its relationship to society and the legal system. A forensic psychologist is a trained psychologist who assists in legal matters. Each of these jobs has different responsibilities, qualifications, and areas of focus. That said, both may carry a risk of mental health challenges like burnout, stress, and vicarious trauma.

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ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Self-control in criminology: we need a broader conceptualization and links to psychiatric diagnoses.

• Department of Criminology, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden

Background: Poor self-control is a strong correlate of criminal propensity. It is conceptualized and operationalized differently in criminology than in other scientific traditions.

Aims: (1) To verify the dimensionality of the criminological Grasmick self-control items, other self-regulation items and morality ones. (2) To re-interpret the dimensions using a clinical perspective, a taxonomic/diagnostic model and references to possible “biological underpinnings.” (3) Validate the dimensions by associations with crime.

Method: Population: all persons born 1995 in Malmö and living there at age 12. A random sample (N = 525) filled in a comprehensive self-report questionnaire on themes like personality, crime/abuse and social aspects at age 15, 16 and 18. Age 18 data were analysed: 191 men and 220 women.

Results: Self-regulation items were 4-dimensional: ADHD problems (Behavior control and Executive skills) and two Aggression factors. Morality items formed a fifth dimension. Negative Affect and Social interaction factors covered the rest of the variance. The validity of these factors was backed up by correlations with similar items/factors. Self-regulation subscales predicted crimes better than the Grasmick scale; an interaction with morality improved prediction still further. Sex differences were over-all small with three exceptions: Aggression, Morality and Negative affect.

Conclusion: We identified four dimensions of the 20-item Grasmick instrument: Cognitive action control (impulsiveness/sensation seeking, response inhibition), Executive skills/future orientation, Affective/aggression reactivity and Aggression control. All should be possible to link to brain functional modules. Much can be gained if we are able to formulate an integrated model of self-regulation including distinct brain functional modules, process-and trait-oriented models, relevant diagnoses and clinical experiences of individual cases.

Introduction

Self-control is a concept which is extensively researched in many research traditions, also with respect to its association with crime and externalized rule-breaking behavior. In these traditions self-control is a more complex concept than the criminological conceptualization by Gottfredson and Hirschi (1990) , viewing it as a one-dimensional static trait. The operationalization by Grasmick et al. (1993) does not reflect the complexity of the concept, evident in the 26 chapters of the Handbook of Self-Regulation Research, Theory, and Applications edited by Baumeister and Vohs (2004) . As stated by Inzlicht et al. (2021) , self regulation is primarily a psychological concept which has proliferated into other research traditions. Thereby, integration was lost and researchers talk past each other or engage in conflicts, not the least with respect to the Grasmick conceptualisation ( DeLisi et al., 2010 ; Moffit, 2012 ; Walters, 2016 ; Nigg, 2017 ; Meldrum et al., 2018 ; Burt, 2020 ).

Even if definitions and operationalization varies in the Baumeister and Vohs (2004) handbook, most of the contributors try to formulate a “general understanding.” The different theories tend to respect knowledge concerning relevant brain functional networks/modules (biological under-pinning), and are open to include clinical/typological aspects. The self-control concept in criminology appears to be detached from this general understanding. Research on crime and crime prevention is thereby hampered.

Unfortunately, criminology and many other disciplines appear to neglect the diagnostic/typological approach of clinical sciences. Few would question the statement that psychopaths display poor self-regulation and that that is backed up by thousands of research publications. The word psychopathy is not used in the in the Inzlicht, Werner et al. publication. A similar sceptizism concerns ADHD. This is unfortunate because such diagnoses provide knowledge bridges to the biological underpinnings. Why was Phineas Gage no longer Phineas Gage (www.britannica > biography > phineas-Gate)?

With respect to the brain, the most basic models of impulsivity are the clinical Utilization syndrome ( L’Hermitte, 1983 ) and the response inhibition paradigm ( Polner et al., 2015 ; Kolodny et al., 2020 ), both implicating dysfunctions in the orbito-medial parts of the pre-frontal areas ( Wåhlstedt et al., 2009 ; Tompson et al., 2020 ). With respect to affect control, two systems are involved: a sub-cortical one (the primitive mammal brain, i.e., the limbic system and certain nuclei) and a cortical one with pre-frontal areas being most important ( Bantjes et al., 2020 ). Affect incontinence is a well-known clinical phenomenon in frontal lobe dysfunction, first described scientifically by Rylander (1939) . The fundamentally different functional organization in the brain of impulsivity and affect control strongly suggest that we should construct a multi-dimensional replacement of the Grasmick scale, compatible with a “general understanding” of the concept across various scientific traditions ( cf . Bridgett, 2020 ; Eronen and Bringmann, 2021 ).

According to a process-oriented cognitive model, an impulsive system (System I) fights with a control one (System II) in behavior control in order to realize an envisiged specific outcome and avoid other outcomes ( Hofmann et al., 2009 , 2012 ). One important component in this model is executive, to formulate future consequences. The biological underpinning of the two systems is well known ( Lopez et al., 2017 ; Koban et al., 2021 ).

Personality trait models are alternatives to the process-oriented ones with respect to self-regulation. CG Jung is the pioneer ( Jung, 1971 ). Personality traits are now crystallized into five uncorrelated dimensions, the Big Five and accepted in the DSM-5 (PID-5, 2013) typological conceptualization of personality disorders. The Grasmick operationalization is claimed to be one-dimensional (idem). In the PID-5 (idem) the corresponding items/characteristics are at least 2-dimensional (Emotional lability and Disinhibition).

Walters (2016) did a meta-analysis of the concept self-control based on thirteen trait data sets. He presented one answer: Self-control is a multidimensional construct , and one question: What constructs are involved? One recent meta-analysis of the full Grasmick scale yielded six factors ( Pechorro et al., 2023 ), which were interpreted differentially than the “general understanding.” Using advanced statistics only half of the subscales were psychometrically adequate.

The psychiatric approach is typological (diagnosis-based) and includes professionally proven (clinical) experience. The ADHD diagnosis covers signs and symptoms of poor self-regulation and are strongly associated with crime ( Mohr-Jensen and Steinhausen, 2016 ; Anker et al., 2021 ). In statistical analyses binary assumtions and Baysean use of prior (including clinical) knowledge is accepted. In contrast, the psychological approach is dimensional and analyses are number-driven and often statistically advanced. There is always a large element of interpretation in such analyses, particularly factor analyses. That is another problem in a complex world: reality may not always be possible to describe by statistically clean models. That creates un-necessary barriers between scientific traditions studying the same reality.

Citing Inzlicht et al. (2021) , we need to integrate different models of selfregulation from within social and personality psychology and cognitive neuroscience (we would like to add diagnostic knowledge). Perhaps the clearest example of such confusion is with the term self-regulation itself.

Criminality is empirically associated with various aspects of poor self-regulation as well as with weak moral control and their interaction ( Wikström et al., 2024 ). Astonglishly little is known about the individual and situational characteristics that affect the functioning of self-control in relation to crime ( Hirtenlehner and Leitgöb, 2021 ), i.e., the mechanism-based interplay between self-control and morality. Hence, this is important to analyse. Finally, we need to apply a life-course perspective – how different functional modules mature and link together over time. This is not a linear process: with puberty self-regulation begins to fail until age 15, then it increases ( Atherton et al., 2020 ). Clinically there are large sex differences, partly explained by the slower myelinisation of the male brain.

We re-analysed previously collected self-report questionnaire data inspired by the Grasmick approach. Specifically, we wanted to address the issues brought up by DeLisi et al. (2010) and Walters (2016) – the dimensionality of the criminological self-control concept and the nature of its components. We used data from a Swedish longitudinal study, Malmö Individual and Neighbourhood Data Study (MINDS), which followed 525 young people during the adolescent period ( Ivert et al., 2018 ; Chrysoulakis, 2022 ).

The overall aim was to use a clinical and cross-scientific approach for re-analysing a relevant data set with a particular focus on self-regulation and its association with norm-breaking behavior and crime, specifically by adding a typological diagnostic approach and consider possible biological underpinnings (brain functional modules) of behavior.

1. Reconsider the factor structure of the Grasmick scale, establish its construct validity by documenting associations with relevant items/scales and suggest alternative interpretations of what we measure by such scales/components.

2. Construct a replacement of the Grasmick scale using an alternative factor structure, compatible with the general understanding of self-regulation and typological constructs.

3. Verify the new scale’s predictive power for norm-breaking behavior and crime and the additional predictive power via an interaction with morality.

Data were drawn from the Malmö Individual and Neighbourhood Development Study (MINDS), which is a longitudinal study of a randomly selected sample of adolescents born in 1995 and living in Malmö, Sweden, on September 1, 2007. The total sample consists of 525 adolescents (approximately 20% of the cohort). The data employed in the current study comes from the fourth wave of data collection, when the participants were at age 18. From the original sample 114 participants (74 boys and 40 girls) did not participate in the fourth wave of data collection. A drop-out analysis was conducted separate for sex, crime, and extraversion variables. This resulted in only a few significant differences. The data set comprised almost 600 self-report questions covering around 50 themes. Data were analysed for 411 participants (191 men and 220 women).

Independent variables

We focused initially on an 8-item Grasmick scale [items described and inclusion motivated in Wikström et al. (2012) ]. Items refer conceptually to impulsivity, sensation seeking, aggression control and future-orientation (executive), but is claimed to be one-factorial ( Walters, 2016 ). Six Self-control items and six Morality items were added to the scale ( Wikström et al., 2012 ; Table 1 ). In the following these 20 items are denoted as Grasmick/Self-control/Morality (GSC/M) ones. Exploratory oblique factor analyses and homogeneity analyses resulted in four subscales ( Table 2 ).

Table 1 . The 20 Grasmick self-control/morality (GSC/M) items.

Table 2 . Mean values and SD for seven personality factors of the GSC/M and SDQ questionnaires, and statistical and clinical (Cohen’s d) significance for the sex differences.

The Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is a clinically oriented 25-item trait instrument compiled from different sources to assess internalized/externalized reaction patterns and social aspects of children/adolescents ( Goodman et al., 1998 ; Hagquist, 2007 ). The 20 + 25 GSC/M and SDQ items generated seven subscales which are the main independent variables of the present study ( Table 2 ).

Other relevant items in the data set were considered theme-wise and analysed using the same approach (exploratory factor analyses followed by analyses of scale homogeneity, vide supra ).

Of specific interest for the current study were items forming subscales of Future-orientation (executive), Aggression, Morality, Shame and Guilt as specified in Wikström et al. (2012) . Other sets of items (themes/subscales) reflected a range of other partly relevant individual characteristics and experiences. These subscales were used to ascertain that the participants responded in a consistent way and for construct validation purposes.

Dependent variables

Items relevant to themes of offending/crime and externalized rule-breaking behavior (ERB) as described in Wikström et al. (2012) were considered together in exploratory factor analyses. Self-reported offending was measured with nine items: shoplifting, theft from a person, assault, robbery, residential burglary, non-residential burglary, theft from/of a car, vandalism and arson. For assessing ERB we included “minor crimes” (walking against red light, stealing a pen), truancy, bullying and conflicts with parents, teachers, and peers.

A series of explorative oblique factor analyses of the self-reported crime and the ERB variables suggested a simple almost orthogonal 2-factor solution, explaining 65% of the total variance. Drug crimes were omitted, and sex crimes and partner violence (both unusual) came out separately and are not included in the following analyses. Factor 1 included all serious crimes, Factor 2 included minor crimes and ERB. Scales of Crime and of ERB were computed and highly homogenous (r iccc single item was 0.44 and 0.35). The Crime subscale was highly skewed and transformed according to the following algorithm: 0, 1, 2 to 3, 4 to 9 and 9–100 crimes. 57% reported no crimes and 2% 9–100 crimes. Furthermore, we constructed a crime versatility index ranging from 0–9 crime types as described by Hare (1991) .

Analytic strategy

SPSS 26.0 package was used to assess statistical significance of differences and associations. In addition, the size of statistically significant effects was computed, whenever it was meaningful. For differences in means, Cohen’s d was used. There are similar but non-consistent definitions of effect size for correlation coefficients in the literature. We used the R index to assess shared variance - R  > 0.039 ( r  = 0.20) as a small association, R  > 0.11 ( r  = 0.35) as a moderately strong one and R > 0.19 ( r  = 0.45) as a strong association.

There were fewer than 3% missing values for most of the items - these were replaced by imputation, as the most common value unless a regression analysis suggested that a separately computed value should be imputed.

Ethics statement

The project was approved by the Regional Ethics committee at Lund university 2007 and 2014 (dnr 2007/201 and dnr 2014/826).

The factor analyses of the 20 GSC/M items resulted in four factors keeping 50% of the initial variance ( Table 2 ). From a clinical criminological perspective, the factors were interpreted as ADHD problems (ADHD-1) , Aggression (Aggression-1) , Guilt/Shame/Morality (Morality-1) and Executive functions . The two first factors shared 25 per cent of the variance; the others were essentially uncorrelated. Three items with no clear association to one of the factors were excluded. Four GSC/M subscales were defined according to the outcome of the factor analyses and checked for homogeneity (r iccc , single value >0.30). Items had similar variance; hence subscales were computed by the mean of item responses and named as in Table 2 .

Exploratory factor analyses of the 25 SDQ items resulted in three factors, explaining 55 per cent of the total variation and interpreted as Negative affect (PID-5 terminology), as ADHD problems (ADHD-2), and as Extraversion/Social Desirability . Three items displayed no distinct factor association and were excluded. Subscales were computed, homogeneity was >0.30 except for the Extraversion scale for which r iccc was 0.19. Scale names are given in Table 2 .

A comparison of men and women with respect to the seven factors (four GSC/M and three SDQ ones) yielded the results presented in Table 2 (t-tests were used for statistical significance). Sex differences were obtained for Moral control and Negative affect.

We contrasted the GSC/M Morality (Moral-1) subscale with the 18-item Shame & Guilt and the 16-item Importance of morality rules scales [these scales and the following ones are described in Wikström et al. (2012) ]. As expected, associations were strong among these three subscales. A Moral-2 subscale was based on the Shame & Guilt items, a Moral-3 subscale on the Importance items. The GSC/M Aggression subscale was contrasted with a separate 16-item Aggression-2 scale – but these scales had only 7 % shared variance. Other statistically significant associations between the GSC/M and SDQ subscales on one hand and scales based on relevant themes were obtained for most of the analyzes (details not provided). These analyzes suggest that participants responded in a consistent way to similar items, and that the subscales represent clinically/conceptually meaningful and homogenous constructs.

The Aggression-1 subscale items are formulated to reflect control, not intensity: How well are you able to control your anger? In contrast, the items of the Aggression-2 subscale reflects intensity and type of trigger: ‘ How angry do you become if someone … ’. The shared variance was only R = 0.07 - hence it may be meaningful to construct an index reflecting whether affective reaction intensity or failure to control the affect is the larger problem. The two aggression factors were z-transformed, and a difference score was computed. High positive values suggest that affect intensity is the larger problem, negative values suggest control problems. Boys had a mean of −0.37; girls 0.33. The difference is statistically highly significant ( t  = 5.93, p  < 0.000) and with respect to effect size almost large (d = 0.70). Hence, girls report more problems with reactions to aggression triggers, boys with aggression control.

The Crime index was extremely skewed, this was reduced by defining subclasses, see above. The Crime and the Versatility indices were strongly intercorrelated (0.91). The ERB index was normally distributed. The Crime and the ERB indices appear to be two different things with a moderate/small intercorrelation ( r = 0.35 for boys; r = 0.26 for girls). A small subgroup of individuals, somewhat more boys, committed most of the serious crimes. ERB appears to be a normally distributed youth phenomenon with statistically significant but clinically small sex differences.

Intercorrelations between independent variables and the Crime and ERB indices are shown in Table 3 , separately for sex. Most correlations were significant. The overall pattern of associations is quite similar for the two sexes. However, there are some note-worthy differences, particularly with respect to ADHD problems, Aggression and Morality.

Table 3 . Correlations between self-control/morality subscales and two crime indices, separately for sex.

Sex-separate multiple stepwise linear regression analyses were run with the predictors in Table 3 for the Crime, Versatility and ERB indices. Predicting the Crime index, the ADHD-1 index and its interaction with Morality were selected ( R  = 0.21) for boys. For girls the same predictors were selected, and in addition the SDQ ADHD-2 scale ( R  = 0.21). The Grasmick subscale (GS) was not selected.

For Versatility, the same indices were again selected, and in addition Aggression-1 and Aggression-2 for both sexes ( R  = 0.26 and R  = 0.21, respectively).

For ERB the sex pattern was different. For boys, the ADHD-1 vs. Morality interaction term was selected first, then ADHD-2 and finally the Aggression-2 index ( R = 0.22). For girls, the Grasmick subscale came out first, then Aggression-2.

Summing up, the ADHD-1 index displayed sex-independent and strong associations with the two more serious crime indices (Crime index and Versatility), with a further contribution by interactions with morality. The prediction of ERB does not differ from what predicts serious crimes among boys – but is different for girls.

The expected 2-dimensional factor structure (self-control and morality) of the 20 GSC/M self-report items was not replicated. Hence, self-control, interpreted in the light of clinical criminological knowledge, is conceptually different from the one-dimensional Grasmick self-control scale ( DeLisi et al., 2010 ; Walters, 2016 ; Nigg, 2017 ; Kroneberg and Schulz, 2018 ; Pechorro et al., 2023 ). The four self-control dimensions which we identified reflect, as far as we know, different sets of CNS functional networks, may have different associations (causal explanatory power) with crime and may interact differentially with criminogenic context variables.

There were some sex differences but for most of them the effect size was small. For the Morality dimension, boys were less controlled by such considerations when acting.

The four GSC/M dimensions (Aggression-1, ADHD-1, Morality-1 and Executive-1) displayed highly significant associations with other scales assessing the same constructs as well as significant associations with other scales which was expected according to theory, i.e., construct validity. Aggression-1 was linked to for instance Family climate, Dys-social friends and Conflicts with parents, teachers and peers. Hence, the four GSC/M factors appear to represent a valid summation of important clinical and crime-relevant individual characteristics.

With respect to self-reported crimes and externalized rule-breaking behavior (ERB), only two highly homogenous factors came out, covered a surprisingly large amount of the total variance and were only weakly correlated.

One of the Big five personality factors, Negative affect using PID-5 terminology, came out essentially uncorrelated with anything except sex in the present analyses. The Extraversion/Social desirability factor was only marginally homogenous and includes a conceptual mix of items. Many were identical to social desirability items in older scales (EPQ Lie scale and Marlowe/Crowne and KSP Social desirability scales). These in turn tend to be negatively correlated with psychopathy checklist scores ( Levander, 1979 ). Paradoxically, the most skillful liers score low on the EPQ Lie subscale. This conceptual mix of items may explain the nonsignificant correlation for Extraversion/Social desirability with crime.

A more detailed analysis of the association between the GSC/M Aggression index (mainly reflecting poor affect control) and the other aggression indices suggests that it is a core individual characteristic of relevance to criminology. We were able to look at the balance between triggers and control when it generated problems. We identified an interesting sex difference – and it was almost large in respect of clinical effect size. Girls had problems by reacting too strongly to aggression-provoking situations; boys had problems to control aggression once it had appeared. A closer look at the actual items (a clinical approach) revealed that many of the aggression-provoking situations described bullying of an innocent and defence-less victim – and to these items girls reacted more strongly than boys. Is it an issue of compassion rather than aggression? With respect to the biological underpinning we know that at least two distinct functional networks are involved, one of which is partially subcortical ( Bantjes et al., 2020 ).

We identified several sex differences with respect to the two sets of independent and dependent variables – however fewer and smaller than might be expected. Are the mechanisms leading to criminality the same across sex or should we look for specific sex-associated criminal career mechanisms?

The actual findings are fully compatible with most of the current empirical criminological studies, for instance the Situational Action Theory (SAT) assumptions regarding self-control and morality ( Wikström et al., 2024 ). However, such concepts need to be linked to the personality trait tradition as well as the diagnostic tradition of medicine, particularly ADHD but also PTSD which is associated with poor self-regulation and aggression control ( Svingen, 2023 ) as well as criminality ( Coker et al., 2014 ). It is obvious that the self-control items of the GSC/M and SDQ instruments are almost identical to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for an ADHD diagnosis.

ADHD is a typological concept and as such strongly associated with crime ( Coker et al., 2014 ; Anker et al., 2021 ). It might as well be seen as an over-populated specific corner in a multi-dimensional space. Hence, dimensional and typological analyses are fully compatible but differentially preferred in psychiatry and psychology/criminology. Multi-factorial mechanisms generate normal distributions – local aggregation suggests that a simple 0/1-coded causal mechanism operates. That mechanism, in the present context, is most probably genetic; the heritability of ADHD is very high (75%) and special by being multi-genetic, including effects of specific profiles of genes rather than single genes ( Faraone and Larsson, 2019 ). We need a “dimensional” name corresponding to the typological ADHD concept which in this study includes four components: cognitive action control (two components: impulsiveness/sensation seeking/response inhibition, and future orientation), affective reactivity and affective control. These should be possible to link directly to corresponding and to some extent shared brain functional networks ( Salum et al., 2014 ; Yap et al., 2021 ). There is a growing body of studies reporting findings similar to ours with respect to self-regulation and crime ( Schoepfer et al., 2019 ; Krona et al., 2021 ). The Morality dimension is also linked with typological diagnoses: Conduct and Antisocial disorders, and with psychopathy: “They know the words but not the music” ( Cleckley, 1941 ) and display deviant brain functionality ( Johanson et al., 2019 ; De Brito et al., 2021 ). Finally, the core concepts of agency, free will and responsibility, is currently operationalized in terms of brain processing – providing new inputs to the discussion which Aristotle started 2,376 years ago ( Aristotle, 2014 ; Lavazza and Inglese, 2023 ).

We need to integrate knowledge from different scientific traditions, which employ either dimensional or typological approaches. We also need clinical knowledge in order to understand how to prevent crime, one of the most important problems in our time. Clinical knowledge, the typological approach and biological underpinnings have been under-used and un-integrated in criminology since many decades – the rapid development of methods to study the working brain provides us with new possibilities. Since 1999, the Freudian school wants to participate ( Abrams et al., 2023 ). Citing Inzlicht et al. (2021) again: It is tempting to try to combine var ious models of self-regulation into a single comprehensive model . The authors concluded that it would be premature. We think that a new Handbook would be timely.

Limitations

This is one study performed in one city in one welfare country at this specific time. More but not many more studies are needed in order to generalize the findings. Analyses cannot be done unless N is large enough and the item pool is rich and organized according to theory – virtues of the present study. Another virtue is that we have identical data sets for the same participants at age 15 and 16, yet to analyze by a clinical criminological approach.

Data availability statement

The datasets presented in this article are not readily available. According to the ethical approvement data cannot currently be delivered to other parties. Once the last phase of data collection is complete, the data will then be anonymised. Requests to access the datasets should be directed to [email protected] .

The studies involving humans were approved by Regional Ethics committee at Lund university 2007 and 2014 (dnr 2007/201 and dnr 2014/826). The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. Written informed consent for participation in this study was provided by the participants' legal guardians/next of kin.

Author contributions

SL: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. ML: Conceptualization, Funding acquisition, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing.

The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The study was supported by grants from the Swedish Research Council, Grant No. 2012-05545/HS24-09/1055.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Keywords: self-control, self-regulation, ADHD, personality, criminality, sex, CNS functional networks

Citation: Levander S and Levander MT (2024) Self-control in criminology: we need a broader conceptualization and links to psychiatric diagnoses. Front. Psychol . 15:1435003. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1435003

Received: 19 May 2024; Accepted: 02 July 2024; Published: 17 July 2024.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2024 Levander and Levander. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Marie Torstensson Levander, [email protected]

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Forensic psychology and criminology personal statement example.

When hearing about crime, the question asked is what possesses someone to do such a thing? A question that seems simple enough yet no one has actually been able to identify what makes a person do what they do.

Arguments are that it must be a mental abnormality that causes people to do what they do. Others believe that it is society's impact on a being that influences them. Both arguments being extremely controversial and interesting to me.

When I started my first college in 2013, I didn't know what I wanted to do career-wise. Psychology was a subject I had never done before but was something that I wanted to investigate and try out. In a media lesson, we were looking at universities and what courses they offered.

Everyone was looking at courses to do with the media but nothing was gripping my attention. I decided to look outside of this section and go onto psychology.

It is then I remember falling in love with psychology courses and what they had to offer within that degree. I also found that I could do psychology alongside another related subject!

From then, I realised that the subjects I was doing weren't beneficial to me so I started the next year at a different college doing psychology, sociology and law.

Within weeks of doing these subjects, I knew that psychology was something that I definitely wished to pursue in for a degree and then a career.

Since studying psychology, I have altered the way that I interpret a person's actions as now I know that there are many different biological factors that affect a person.

What you see of a person isn't necessarily everything; there is a lot underneath the surface. In the first year of psychology, we had a student from a nearby university ask our class to be a part of her study of human interaction and the effect it has on memory.

I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of it and it gave me an insight into the process of an experiment. This intensified my interest in studying psychology as I would love to examine and understand people's behaviour.

As said previously, I wish to study a subject similar to psychology alongside it. Studying law helped give me an insight into the legal system and the way law works.

Alongside this, studying sociology enhanced my understanding within crime. A key topic within sociology was crime and deviance whereby we looked at society's impact on crime.

By studying psychology and sociology, it allowed me to see views on the criminal world and the criminal mind; going into details of whether someone becomes a criminal through biological factors like their genes or if their socialisation had an impact and they see committing crime as the norm.

Within both of these subjects, I very much enjoyed the research methods part as it allowed me to gain a knowledge of different methods used in experiments.

From the age of 14, I have helped out with my aunt's charity - something that is close to my heart. I helped organise events which helped with my communication skills as before I was always shy.

This and my part-time job on checkouts definitely helped me to come out of myself and become a more confident, independent person. Something that I hope to further at university.

I very much enjoy camping; I completed the Silver & Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and have gone to many music festivals where I have camped at.

Festivals are a great place to become your own person, it's a place to have fun and create some amazing memories! Music is of a great interest to me as I believe it allows a person to express themselves.

I am a committed student that is extremely passionate about psychology and the world of crime and I look forward to continuing my education at university and overcoming the challenges that this degree has to offer.

I feel that university will not only allow me to get into a career that I love and have a great interest in; it will also allow me to become an independent, mature adult who will have the life experience of University.

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Author's Comments

I got 5/5 offers within 3 days.

Applied to: Portsmouth (2 different courses) Bedfordshire Birmingham City Southampton Solent

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