Increasing Complexity: Resisting Simplification in Forensic Psychology

The American Academy of Forensic Psychology annually presents a Distinguished Contribution in Forensic Psychology Award to an individual whose work has significantly moved the field forward. Dr. Follingstad received this award for decades of productive research, testimony, and public education regarding family, adolescent, and women\u27s issues, all areas in which she has received numerous research grants over the years. Following is her acceptance speech, presented at the American Psychology-Law Association convention in Vancouver, B.C. in March 2010

Group Therapy for Incarcerated Women Who Experienced Interpersonal Violence: A Pilot Study

This study evaluated effectiveness of group therapy for incarcerated women with histories of childhood sexual and/or physical abuse. The intervention was based on a two-stage model of trauma treatment and included Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills and writing assignments. We randomly assigned 24 participants to group treatment (13 completed) and 25 to a no-contact comparison condition (18 completed). We evaluated treatment effects, using the Beck Depression Inventory, Inventory of Interpersonal Problems, and Trauma Symptom Inventory. The data demonstrate significant reductions in PTSD, mood, and interpersonal symptoms in the treatment group