The role of the prison psychologist is quite important in today's society. Thanks to their work, the vast majority of criminals manage to rehabilitate and integrate into society. Their task is not easy or simple since they must deal with people who have committed some type of crime considered serious.
Not everyone is worth to develop this type of work since they are going to experience the worst of human nature in their flesh. In the following article we will talk to you in more detail of what a prison psychologist is and the functions he is going to have.
What are the functions of a prison psychologist
The prison psychologist will develop his functions in two very different areas: one in the expert and another with a greater intervention.
- In the first of them, the psychologist is dedicated to making a diagnosis at the mental level of the offender, in addition to making various reports that you must send to the court. The role of the prison psychologist becomes especially important when the accused enters prison. There you must continuously monitor him to know at all times his evolution at a mental level. These follow-ups are key when the judge decides to reduce the sentence and grant him certain permits.
- The second area is that of intervention. Thanks to this, the prison psychologist has the power to initiate a specific treatment that can help the inmate to recover from any problem he may have, such as certain addictions or mental disorders. Treatment can help the sentenced person to recover from their problem and thus achieve rehabilitation.
Competences of the prison psychologist
The prison psychologist will act in the following powers:
- He is in charge of studying thoroughly the different personalities of criminals.
- It is helped by different psychological tools, to help you write a report according to the mental state of the accused.
- It also has the role of counselor at the educational and employment level of the offender, so that they can do different activities within the penitentiary.
- You can perform different therapies either individually or collectively.
Requirements when applying for a position as a prison psychologist
If a person wishes to enter a competition and apply for one of the prison psychologist positions, they must meet a series of requirements:
- You must fill out an application to access the selective tests offered by the Public Administration.
- Pay the corresponding fees to be able to carry out the different exams.
- Present the Bachelor's degree in Psychology.
- Not have been in jail more than three years.
What are the oppositions to prison psychologist?
To apply for one of the positions offered, candidates must pass two distinct phases: one is the evaluation and the other is the selection. Specifically, it is a theoretical test and another more focused on practices. In the case of the theoretical test, the applicant will have to pass four exercises that add up to the final grade.
If the person is one of those chosen and manages to pass the theoretical test, he / she goes on to carry out a series of practices that is divided into two parts: a training course in prison technician and an internship within the penitentiary center. If the person manages to overcome this last phase, they will be able to enter the prison body, specifically as a prison psychologist.
A final aspect to emphasize is the salary or remuneration that a figure such as the prison psychologist will receive. As a general rule, this position of the Public Administration You are going to receive about 2000 gross euros per month plus two extraordinary payments. In any case, this is a rough estimate since the salary may vary depending on the town in Spain where you exercise the position.
In short, the prison psychologist is a not very well known position although its importance is vital, especially in the event that the person who has committed an offense manages to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society. It is a position that requires significant empathy and certain social skills when it comes to getting along with people who have been able to commit some type of crime.