Thread: i'm thinking about my future career and i'm thinking about becoming a criminal

psychologist,what do u think? firstly I'm 15 and in school (in england)

i have been asked to think about what i want as a future occupation and i really like the idea of becoming a criminal psychologist however i live in birmingham and I'm willing to go to places like london to work but in your opinion do u think it is a good job and after i have done my masters will i be secure in getting a job...also what is the salary like....i just want you to give me your opinion of the job and some general facts..thank youu for your time and 10 points to the most helpful

good idea.

I don't know anything about you to say if it is a good choice for you.

There is a need for people in this position. There is a limited number of people in the field though.

I am a British and Canadian citizen, and have looked into the field in the UK. Forensic psychology is what I assume you are calling criminal psychology, its a newer field in the UK than other branches of psychology, Cognitive therapy for instance. The pay is decent, although not as much as an occupational psychologist.

You would probably find yourself working at some type of government institution: prison, mental health, transition houses, etc. Its my feeling that these place are somewhat depressing, but that's just me, you might like it. If you feel passionate about the work enough, it will balance out. Psychology does see a high burnout rate for counselors. I would consider these factors in making my decision, How much do I feel driven to do this work? How much will the negative factors affect me? How will the rewards make me feel? What do I perceive as the rewards? Is the money good enough? Is the career open ended so I can switch out into something else if I have to? For example, maybe I cant continue as a forensic psychologist so I go into counseling or occupational psychology. Am I leaving doors open, are changes possible?

Also, search on job posting web sites, get to see the average wages, demand and job descriptions. Talk to people, get out there, and most important, take all the information in that you find and reflect on it yourself. Introspect and discover if this is really your best decision. Feel deeply and think clearly. Good luck!