---
title: What Examples of Junk Science Most Commonly Appear in Forensic Psychological Assessments, and How Can Forensic Psychologists Avoid Them?
description: Learn how forensic psychologists can identify and avoid junk science in assessments to ensure accuracy and uphold ethical standards in high-stakes cases.
---

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# [What Examples of Junk Science Most Commonly Appear in Forensic Psychological Assessments, and How Can Forensic Psychologists Avoid Them?](https://paloaltou.edu/resources/business-of-practice-blog/what-examples-of-junk-science-most-commonly-appear-in-forensic-psychological-assessments-and-how-can-forensic-psychologists-avoid-them)

 Written by [Owen Poindexter](https://paloaltou.edu/resources/business-of-practice-blog/author/owen-poindexter) | Feb 5, 2026 4:00:03 PM

Forensic psychological assessments influence life-altering decisions such as suitability for correctional rehabilitation, criminal responsibility, and even capital punishment. Despite the high stakes, testimony from experts has been flagged in recent years for troubling levels of “[junk science](https://concept.paloaltou.edu/course/Identifying-and-Avoiding-Junk-Science-in-Forensic-Psychological-Assessments),” also referred to as pseudoscience, which possesses the superficial appearance of well-established science but lacks its rigorous empirical backing. This trend has led to what Iowa State University forensic psychologist Tess Neal has [referred](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2233956-controversial-psychology-tests-are-often-still-used-in-us-courts/) to as the "wild west," where clinicians often have the freedom to utilize any tool they desire, regardless of its scientific validity.

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