Consider the following scenario:A young man is sentenced to death. However, you cannot forget the victims: two teachers and a law enforcement officer, and their families who they left behind. The offender shows no remorse. This is a tragedy all around.In this week’s Discussion, you will consider the risk assessment that the forensic psychologist and the forensic psychology professionals will have to implement to ensure not only the safety of the inmate but also the community at large. Does the young man present potential liabilities for all those at the institution who come into contact with him? What will the American Civil Liberty Union (ACLU) do? How might the ACLU argue that a juvenile should not be sentenced as an adult? Will the forensic professional be sued? Unfortunately, forensic psychology professionals may get sued not only by the inmate and his or her family, but also by activist groups such as the ACLU on behalf of the inmate. You will review the AP-LS Forensic Psychology Specialty Guidelines and the APA Ethical Guidelines pertaining to a death penalty case and, more importantly, a juvenile death penalty case.
Lastly, you will consider how you will, as a forensic psychology professional, reconcile in your own personal ethical code how to remain impartial, fair, and just, as you are charged to in your field. How will you address the issues with the community and social media that are likely to follow the news that an adolescent has been sentenced to death?
To prepare
Review the Learning Resources.
Consider the ethical consequences of the death penalty as presented in the Learning Resources.
Consider that you are in charge of addressing a key issue: capital punishment involving a minor.