Forensic Psychology Professionals and Racial Profiling - Coursework Example

Forensic Psychology Professionals and Racial Profiling Racial profiling remains an issue of controversy for those who agree or disagree with its use by law enforcement officers during investigations. Proponents of racial profiling posit that the investigative method is based on statistical evidence, which disputes opponents’ claims that the method is biased and unethical (O’Conner, 2010). Presently, law enforcement agencies rely on racial profiling to hasten and ease the investigation process.

However, they do so under the guidance of forensic psychologists who seek to make the process more objective. Forensic psychologists play a pivotal role in training law enforcement personnel whereby, they address issues pertaining to cultural competence. By encouraging law enforcement personnel to be conscious of cultural diversity in the community, forensic psychologists help to minimize discrimination of minorities by law enforcement officers. For example, after the 9/11 terrorist attack, law enforcement agencies in the US have subjected innocent Middle East Natives and those who profess the Islamic faith to racial profiling.

ReferencesFBI. (2009, September 3). Expanded Homicide Data Table. Retrieved from http://www2.fbi.gov/ucr/cius2009/offenses/expanded informationOConner, T. (2010, August 23). History of Criminal Profiling. Retrieved from http://www.drtomoconnor.com/4050/4050lect01.htm