SAGE Journal Articles
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Cavender, G., & Deutsch, S. K. (2007). CSI and moral authority: The police and science. Crime, Media, Culture, 3, 67-81.
Thoughtful and balanced commentary on how the TV program CSI has influenced the public perception of what forensic science (including psychology) can do to solve crimes.
Abstract
Since it first aired in 2000, CSI has consistently been among the top-rated television programs in the United States. In this article, we analyze CSI’s debut season and also include observations about the program today as well as its two spin-offs: CSI:NY and CSI:Miami. We are interested in the cultural meanings conveyed in this very popular forensic crime drama, especially in terms of the moral authority of the police and of science. We consider how CSI uses the conventions of the crime genre to assert the police as a moral authority. We also demonstrate how CSI portrays a sense of forensic realism, and, in so doing, asserts the veracity of science. We conclude with a discussion of what these meanings suggest about the legitimacy of policing and of science.
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Morgan, R. D., Beer, A. M., Fitzgerald, K. L., & Mandracchia, J. T. (2007). Graduate students’ experiences, interests, and attitudes toward correctional /forensic psychology. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 34, 96-107.
An interesting study that investigated the availability of correctional and forensic psychology training as well as graduate students’ experiences and attitudes in working with offender populations.
Abstract
This study investigated the availability of correctional and forensic psychology training as well as graduate students’ experiences and attitudes toward working with offender populations. Using survey data gathered from 175 graduate students representing 30 clinical and 29 counseling psychology programs, results indicate the availability of specialized training in correctional and/or forensic psychology for approximately one half of the participants. Furthermore, correctional and forensic practicum experiences appear to be as commonly available as other specialty practicum experiences, and participants report general case loads with clients who have a history of criminal and antisocial behavior. Finally, it is noted that graduate students, regardless of prior practicum or work experiences, maintain positive attitudes toward inmates and perceive work with offenders as interesting, challenging, and meaningful.