The professional use of self in forensic psychology is a critical tool to engagi

The professional use of self in forensic psychology is a critical tool to engaging in effective practice; it is the marriage of our personal self, including our personal experiences and values, with our professional self as informed by our education, training and the Code of Ethics. An important part of forensic psychology training and education is to develop a critical awareness of self, in order to employ use of self in practice in a manner that is ethical and sound.
The purpose of this reflection is for students to “tune in” to self and reflect on their personal and professional experiences as it relates forensic psychology practice with justice involved populations. Students should critically think about how their experiences might shape their “use of self’ as a professional clinician.
As this is a reflection assignment, there is no right or wrong answer. Responses should be genuine and demonstrate the student’s commitment to professional development.
In a 2 to 3-page reflection, please answer the following:
1. ) Report about your experience with incarceration, whether it has been personal, professional or both (no more than 1 page)
2. Define use of self in forensic psychology (1/2 page)
3. ) Discuss how your experience with incarceration (as discussed in question 1) could potentially shape your use of self as a forensic psychologist? (1-1 ½ pages)
**Special Instructions**
Students should answer these questions genuinely and according to their level of comfort: there is no need to be graphic or extremely specific. Consider “where you are at” in your professional development of self, allowing this to inform your writing and report. For example, you may refer to your experiences in a general way if you are more comfortable doing so, and this may be helpful in order for you to keep appropriate boundaries. APA not required.