Title: Now see this? Forensic evaluator opinions regarding direct observation when evaluating competency to proceed
Authorship: Jennifer Cox, Lauren Meaux, Lauren Kois, Cassandra Jensen
​Abstract: Despite ample best practice recommendations for competency to proceed (CTP) evaluations, direct observation of defendant-attorney interactions is an unstudied methodological technique for assessing defendants’ abilities to assist and consult with their attorneys. This study surveyed 57 forensic evaluators regarding their history and opinions of direct observation as a component of CTP evaluations. Overall, results indicated the majority of forensic evaluators had engaged in direct observation on at least one occasion, with some practicing this approach in up to 85% of their evaluations. A minority endorsed or expressed concerns regarding this practice (e.g., third-party effects, violations of attorney-client privilege). Results of this study provide a preliminary indication of how evaluators perceive the potential utility and hazards of direct observation. In response, we offer a framework for approaching direct observation and highlight the need for additional research examining the impact of this methodological technique for CTP evaluations.

Title: Survey of Doctoral Internships in Psychology Offering Experience in Forensics and Corrections
Authors: Haley Potts, MA; Lauren Kois, PhD
Abstract: ​Background: Students with forensic/correctional interests seek out related doctoral internship sites, though often without clear, updated information on what these sites desire of applicants. Aim: To clarify student experiences and qualities most valued by these internships. Method: We identified internship sites reporting “forensic/correctional experience” via a public internship directory (N = 164). We gathered site information from directory pages and sent an online survey to the sites’ internship directors. Results: Internship directors (n = 57) preferred students with primarily generalist (rather than forensic) training. Applicant characteristics (e.g., flexibility and professionalism) were most impactful, followed by intervention and assessment experiences (especially cognitive-behavioral therapy and intelligence and personality testing). Cultural competency was deemed more important and research experience less important than in previous studies of general internships. Conclusions: Results are largely consistent with previous surveys, though some observed changes in training directors’ expectations appear to reflect changes in the field at large. Recommendations: Students with forensic/correctional interests should primarily seek generalist experiences with supplementary forensic training. Training should focus on fostering flexibility, openness, professionalism, and cultural competency as well as cognitive behavioral intervention, intelligence testing, and personality assessment.