|
|
 |
IP “focuses on examining existing circumstances and naturally occurring patterns of activity in order to solve problems and provide insight” (Canter, 2000).
“ is concerned with psychological input to the full range of issues that relate to the management, investigation and prosecution of crime.” (Canter 2004)
In 1990, Professor Canter was asked to assist with the investigation of 'The Railway Rapist', a case which focused on sexual assault and geographical profiling (Canter & Heritage, 1990). During a conversation with Detective Constable Rupert Heritage, who was leading the investigation, Professor Canter coined the term ‘Investigative Psychology’ because he felt psychology was capable of contributing to many investigations including criminal. Their working partnership illustrated that co-operation between practitioner and academic can be crucial in the quest for investigative success.
Since then, Investigative Psychology has developed as a new field of applied psychology which challenges the conventional research methodology and requires a special approach in order to cope with the patchiness of its central data. Whilst early studies tended to focus on what the offender did, increasingly it has become apparent that attention to what the police do is also of great academic and practical interest. Thus, increased attention has, in recent years, begun to explore the significance of police decision-making, problem solving, evaluating legal testimony and investigative interviewing alongside exploring the psychological significance of how offenders operate.
Until recently, there was a hefty divide between the police and academia which thankfully is now being bridged by an understanding that scientific approaches can help with crime management and that knowledge should be shared by both sides in order from improvements to be made (Villiers & Adlam, 2004)
|
|
|
|
