Discuss why it might be difficult for a psychologist to maintain her impartiality as a scientist and still successfully fulfill her role as an expert testifying in court.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is Main points:
• The U.S. legal system is adversarial.
• Often, experts are hired by either defense or prosecution, with the expectation of helping one side of the trial.
• Lawyers tend to "shop around" for an expert who would testify the way the lawyer needs.
• Expert herself may have ideals or convictions she wants to advocate for.
• Being effective as an expert in court requires presenting a clear-cut, easy-to-understand picture.
• At the same time, science is rarely clear-cut or simple, it requires objectivity and skepticism about your own findings; conflicting explanations for the same facts are not uncommon.

Discuss Why It Might Be Difficult for a Psychologist to Maintain