The American Psychology-Law Society is a freestanding organization, but is it also a part, or division, of the APA (American Psychological Association), Division 41. Those who become members of the AP-LS do not have to be members of the APA. However, most of those who are part of the AP-LS do choose to be a part of both of the groups, as they each have their own benefits and great reasons for becoming a member.

One of the main goals of the AP-LS is to promote the education of psychologists in areas of the law, and you can see how this is right up the alley of most forensic psychologists. They already deal with the law on a regular basis, and becoming a part of a group that will help with furthering education, and helping psychologists to understand how they are going to be able to educate other legal professionals in the subject of psychology, is a great opportunity.

Becoming a Member of the American Psychology-Law Society

Almost anyone can become a member of the AP-LS. Those who are professionals in the field, graduate and undergraduate students, and those who are in related fields can join the Division. It is possible to join online and the best bet to find out the latest membership requirements is to visit the website.

The AP-LS has several categories of membership. Those who are already Associates or Members of one of the other Divisions of the APA can join as well as those who are Fellows of other Divisions. Undergraduate students and early career professionals in their first years of practice may join as well.

It’s even possible for non-psychologists to become members of the AP-LS. For example, sociologists, lawyers, and others in related areas might want to become members of the group. Those who join under this capacity are considered Members-at-Large. Members-at-Large need to have a doctorate in psychology, sociology, or a similar field. If you don’t have a doctorate, the Executive Committee of the AP-LS will take a vote during the annual APA Convention to determine if they are going to vote you in as a member.

When you are a member of the AP-LS, you will find quite a few benefits. You will have access to the publications that come out through the Society. They publish Law and Human Behavior six times easy year and the American Psychology-Law Newsletter three times a year. In addition, you will be able to go to annual meetings and take advantage of different educational opportunities.

Forensic Psychologists Could Benefit

Because of the nature of the American Psychology-Law Society, and the close ties that it has with the law and the use of psychology, it is a perfect fit for a forensic psychologist. Those who are looking for a quality Division of the APA to join will find that the American Psychology-Law Society is perfect for networking as well.

Please visit http://www.apadivisions.org/division-41/index.aspx for more information about The American Psychology-Law Society Division 41 of the APA.