The Behavioral Science Unit is one of the instructional components
of the FBI's Training Division at Quantico, Virginia. Its mission
is to develop and provide programs of training, research, and
consultation in the behavioral and social sciences for the FBI
and law enforcement community that will improve or enhance their
administration, operational effectiveness, and understanding
of crime. This work includes conducting high-impact research
and presenting a variety of cutting edge courses on topics such
as Applied Criminal Psychology, Clinical Forensic Psychology,
Community Policing and Problem-Solving Strategies, Crime Analysis,
Death Investigation, Gangs and Gang Behavior, Interpersonal Violence,
Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted in the Line of
Duty, Research Methodology, Stress Management in Law Enforcement,
and Violence in America.
Training requests by duly authorized law enforcement agencies,
may be submitted in writing and coordinated with the local FBI
field division. Behavioral Science Unit training commitments
are based on FBI and divisional priorities and availability of
resources.
The unit's personnel are primarily Supervisory Special Agents
and experienced veteran police officers with advanced degrees
in the behavioral science disciplines of psychology, criminology,
and sociology. The Behavioral Science Unit professional personnel
also include a forensic psychologist, research analyst, and a
management analyst.
The Behavioral Science Unit conducts specialized and applied
training in the above disciplines as they pertain to law enforcement
for New Agents, FBI in-services and symposia, as well as for
the FBI National Academy Program, international police officers,
field police schools, and criminal justice-related organizations
and conferences consistent with goals and objectives, and available
resources.
In its research, the Behavioral Science Unit focuses on developing
new and innovative investigative approaches and techniques to
the solution of crime by studying the offender, and his/her behavior
and motivation. Some of this research is conducted in partnership
with outside researchers and through interagency agreements with
the Office of Justice Programs, Department of Justice.
Domestic Violence by Police Officers
In September 1998 a diverse group met at the FBI Academy in
Quantico, Virginia, to share with the law enforcement community
their expertise and differing perspectives in dealing with domestic
violence by police officers. This conference formed the basis
for the publication entitled, Domestic Violence by Police
Officers, which is available for purchase through the Government
Printing Office. This publication addresses many areas of
concern, delineated problems, and suggested future research directions.
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The Behavioral Science Unit also coordinates with and supports
other FBI units, such as the National Center for the Analysis
of Violent Crime (NCAVC), of the Critical Incident Response Group
(CIRG), which provides operational assistance to FBI field offices
and law enforcement agencies.
Qualified candidates for the Behavioral Science Unit are selected
from employee applicants. The Behavioral Science Unit does not
presently recruit from outside the FBI.
If you have specific questions regarding FBI employment opportunities,
you may contact the Applicant Coordinator of the nearest FBI Field Office.