Dr. Ahmed: What advice do you have for those contemplating a career in forensic psychiatry?
Dr. Appelbaum: Residents thinking about undertaking training in forensic psychiatry should come to one of the annual meetings of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, the major professional organization of forensic psychiatrists, which takes place every October. That will give them a good feel for the scope of the field and the types of work available. Many residencies offer rotations in forensic psychiatry, another opportunity to learn about the field, and even in programs that don’t, highly motivated residents are often able to arrange electives working with forensic psychiatrists in the community. Doing a research project in the area is another great way to learn more about the field. The more you know before you make a decision, the better that decision will be.