What is Forensic Behavioural Science?

Forensic behavioural science concerns the study of factors that underlie offending. Forensic behavioural scientists are interested in understanding how individual characteristics interact with the environment to produce criminal behaviour, and what might be done to prevent such behaviour in the future.

Forensic behavioural science informs practice in the field of forensic mental health including the disciplines of psychiatry, psychology, mental health nursing, social work, and occupational therapy. These professionals are responsible for the assessment and treatment of those who are, or have the propensity to become, mentally disordered, and whose behaviour has led, or could lead, to offending. More broadly, forensic behavioural science concerns the way in which offenders are identified and managed by law enforcement, courts and criminal justice systems.