5 answers
Ruka
Student
Japan
5
Questions
Asked
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Extracurricular ideas for forensic neuroscience?
I have interest in neurological disabilities in crime and how the law should protect those people. Can you give me extracurricular ideas? I'm a junior in high school.
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5 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
2205
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ruka !
I am delighted to know that while you are in high school you are interested in doing volunteer work or extracurriculars for forensic psychology. You are in Japan. There are many options for this in the United States, so let's explore the social programs and prison protocol for Japan. Your country has made significant progress in services for prisoners.
Although there really couldn't be an extracurricular taking place at/inside your secondary school, I think your best bet would be to explore Re-Entry Programs at which you can probably do reception or data entry or assist the former prisoners if there is an office or residence in Japan for you to work under the supervision of the program manager. The Re-Entry programs in America are sometimes supportive residences where ex-prisoners live and receive case management services. In your country, there is no information that those programs exist and most of the re-entry services are done in prison before they are discharged.
Since that is the case, I suggest visiting some Kōbans (Police Stations) and ask about community re-entry programs. I highly advise not to do any volunteer work inside a prison or counseling on any help phone lines because you have yet to receive the education needed for it to be a beneficial experience for you. You should break the ice slowly, mildly. You will have to deal with both low level and high level criminals and you may not be ready for that or have learned counseling techniques as of yet.
Another option for volunteer work that will be doable for you would be to volunteer at the Probation Office nearest you. You might be able to do reception, clerical and data entry work, but you will learn the ins and outs of probation and see former criminals coming and going and speak with them casually under the supervision of the office supervisor. The suggestions I've made focus on introducing you to the forensics element for a future career as a Psychologist. Keep in mind that your education for your four year Bachelors Degree will give you the ability to do counseling and have more opportunities. There's no need to rush things in secondary school. More doors will open for you through college.
I hope this helps and be very careful in where you do your volunteer work. It should be a positive experience if you start out slow for this.
I am delighted to know that while you are in high school you are interested in doing volunteer work or extracurriculars for forensic psychology. You are in Japan. There are many options for this in the United States, so let's explore the social programs and prison protocol for Japan. Your country has made significant progress in services for prisoners.
Although there really couldn't be an extracurricular taking place at/inside your secondary school, I think your best bet would be to explore Re-Entry Programs at which you can probably do reception or data entry or assist the former prisoners if there is an office or residence in Japan for you to work under the supervision of the program manager. The Re-Entry programs in America are sometimes supportive residences where ex-prisoners live and receive case management services. In your country, there is no information that those programs exist and most of the re-entry services are done in prison before they are discharged.
Since that is the case, I suggest visiting some Kōbans (Police Stations) and ask about community re-entry programs. I highly advise not to do any volunteer work inside a prison or counseling on any help phone lines because you have yet to receive the education needed for it to be a beneficial experience for you. You should break the ice slowly, mildly. You will have to deal with both low level and high level criminals and you may not be ready for that or have learned counseling techniques as of yet.
Another option for volunteer work that will be doable for you would be to volunteer at the Probation Office nearest you. You might be able to do reception, clerical and data entry work, but you will learn the ins and outs of probation and see former criminals coming and going and speak with them casually under the supervision of the office supervisor. The suggestions I've made focus on introducing you to the forensics element for a future career as a Psychologist. Keep in mind that your education for your four year Bachelors Degree will give you the ability to do counseling and have more opportunities. There's no need to rush things in secondary school. More doors will open for you through college.
I hope this helps and be very careful in where you do your volunteer work. It should be a positive experience if you start out slow for this.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Ruka
you're very welcome, Ruka !
Michelle M.
Dana Triplin
Content Manager
14
Answers
West Orange, New Jersey
Updated
Dana’s Answer
1. Volunteer to work on crisis hotlines or victim support services.
2. Look for local organizations supporting individuals with neurological disabilities. Assist with events, fundraising, or direct support.
3. Attend conferences, walks or fundraisers supporting disability awareness and advocacy.
4. Reach out to your local police department or sheriff's office to discuss their policies and procedures regarding individuals with neurological disabilities.
2. Look for local organizations supporting individuals with neurological disabilities. Assist with events, fundraising, or direct support.
3. Attend conferences, walks or fundraisers supporting disability awareness and advocacy.
4. Reach out to your local police department or sheriff's office to discuss their policies and procedures regarding individuals with neurological disabilities.
Thank you so much Dana!
Ruka
Sneha Deb
Tech Consultant
30
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hi Ruka! You might consider joining or starting a neuroscience or psychology club at your school to dive deeper into these topics with like-minded peers. Volunteering with organizations that support people with neurological disabilities could give you practical insights and experience. Additionally, you could look into online courses or webinars about forensic science and law to expand your knowledge. Participating in debate clubs or writing for your school newspaper on related topics can also help you articulate your ideas and advocate for change. Good luck!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Ruka
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1199
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Ruka! That's such a unique and impactful interest you have in forensic neuroscience, and it's amazing that you're thinking about it while still in high school! 🙌
Here are some extracurricular ideas to get you started on this path:
1. **Science Fairs/Research Projects** – Consider researching how brain injuries or neurological disorders impact criminal behavior. This could be a great science fair project or something you can present at local competitions.
2. **Mock Trial or Debate Team** – These clubs are perfect for understanding legal arguments and practicing critical thinking. You can focus on cases that involve neurological disorders or how the law deals with mental health.
3. **Volunteering in the Community** – Look for local organizations that support people with neurological disabilities. Whether it's fundraising, event organization, or even just helping out with activities, this will give you insight into how these individuals are treated and supported.
4. **Shadowing Experts** – If you can, try to reach out to professionals in neuroscience or forensic psychology. You could shadow them or even interview them to learn more about the connection between brain science and the criminal justice system.
5. **Online Courses/Podcasts** – Platforms like Coursera, edX, or even YouTube have free resources on forensic psychology, criminal justice, and neuroscience. You can also listen to podcasts like "Mind on Crime" to dive deeper into the topics you're interested in.
6. **Start a Blog or Club** – If your school doesn’t have a club focusing on forensic neuroscience or neuroethics, you could start one! Share your ideas, research, and articles about how the law intersects with neurological disabilities.
7. **Work with Legal or Mental Health Nonprofits** – Some organizations focus on criminal justice reform and advocating for people with neurological disabilities. There might be internships or volunteer roles where you can get involved.
Keep exploring and pushing forward in this area! You're laying a fantastic foundation for an important career. And most importantly, enjoy the process—you're doing great! 👏
Here are some extracurricular ideas to get you started on this path:
1. **Science Fairs/Research Projects** – Consider researching how brain injuries or neurological disorders impact criminal behavior. This could be a great science fair project or something you can present at local competitions.
2. **Mock Trial or Debate Team** – These clubs are perfect for understanding legal arguments and practicing critical thinking. You can focus on cases that involve neurological disorders or how the law deals with mental health.
3. **Volunteering in the Community** – Look for local organizations that support people with neurological disabilities. Whether it's fundraising, event organization, or even just helping out with activities, this will give you insight into how these individuals are treated and supported.
4. **Shadowing Experts** – If you can, try to reach out to professionals in neuroscience or forensic psychology. You could shadow them or even interview them to learn more about the connection between brain science and the criminal justice system.
5. **Online Courses/Podcasts** – Platforms like Coursera, edX, or even YouTube have free resources on forensic psychology, criminal justice, and neuroscience. You can also listen to podcasts like "Mind on Crime" to dive deeper into the topics you're interested in.
6. **Start a Blog or Club** – If your school doesn’t have a club focusing on forensic neuroscience or neuroethics, you could start one! Share your ideas, research, and articles about how the law intersects with neurological disabilities.
7. **Work with Legal or Mental Health Nonprofits** – Some organizations focus on criminal justice reform and advocating for people with neurological disabilities. There might be internships or volunteer roles where you can get involved.
Keep exploring and pushing forward in this area! You're laying a fantastic foundation for an important career. And most importantly, enjoy the process—you're doing great! 👏
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
885
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hey Ruka,
Your interest in forensic neuroscience is fascinating and could have a real impact on the way the legal system supports people with neurological disabilities. Here are some extracurricular ideas to help you explore this field further:
Academic & Research Opportunities
- Science Fairs & Research Projects – Investigate topics like how brain injuries affect criminal behavior or how the justice system handles neurodivergence. Competitions like ISEF or local science fairs could be great platforms.
- Summer Neuroscience or Psychology Programs – Look into pre-college programs at universities that focus on brain science and law.
- Shadowing or Interviewing Experts – If possible, connect with forensic psychologists, neuroscientists, or lawyers specializing in mental health.
Law & Advocacy Activities
- Mock Trial or Debate Team – Gain experience analyzing cases where neurological conditions play a role in legal defense.
- Volunteering with Neurodivergent Communities – Work with organizations supporting individuals with autism, traumatic brain injuries, or other cognitive conditions.
- Interning at Legal or Mental Health Nonprofits – Some groups focus on disability rights and criminal justice reform, and they might have opportunities for high school students.
Self-Guided Learning & Community Engagement
- Online Courses & Podcasts – Platforms like Coursera and edX offer free courses on forensic psychology, criminal law, and neuroscience. Podcasts like "Mind on Crime" could also be useful.
- Starting a Blog or Club – Share insights on forensic neuroscience through articles or create a school club discussing neuroethics in the justice system.
- Reading & Writing – Books like "The Brain Defense" by Kevin Davis explore real-world cases of neuroscience in the courtroom. Writing essays on these topics could also prepare you for college applications!
You're diving into an important and evolving field, and the work you do now could set the stage for real change. Keep exploring, asking questions, and following your passion—you're on an incredible path!
Best wishes!
Your interest in forensic neuroscience is fascinating and could have a real impact on the way the legal system supports people with neurological disabilities. Here are some extracurricular ideas to help you explore this field further:
Academic & Research Opportunities
- Science Fairs & Research Projects – Investigate topics like how brain injuries affect criminal behavior or how the justice system handles neurodivergence. Competitions like ISEF or local science fairs could be great platforms.
- Summer Neuroscience or Psychology Programs – Look into pre-college programs at universities that focus on brain science and law.
- Shadowing or Interviewing Experts – If possible, connect with forensic psychologists, neuroscientists, or lawyers specializing in mental health.
Law & Advocacy Activities
- Mock Trial or Debate Team – Gain experience analyzing cases where neurological conditions play a role in legal defense.
- Volunteering with Neurodivergent Communities – Work with organizations supporting individuals with autism, traumatic brain injuries, or other cognitive conditions.
- Interning at Legal or Mental Health Nonprofits – Some groups focus on disability rights and criminal justice reform, and they might have opportunities for high school students.
Self-Guided Learning & Community Engagement
- Online Courses & Podcasts – Platforms like Coursera and edX offer free courses on forensic psychology, criminal law, and neuroscience. Podcasts like "Mind on Crime" could also be useful.
- Starting a Blog or Club – Share insights on forensic neuroscience through articles or create a school club discussing neuroethics in the justice system.
- Reading & Writing – Books like "The Brain Defense" by Kevin Davis explore real-world cases of neuroscience in the courtroom. Writing essays on these topics could also prepare you for college applications!
You're diving into an important and evolving field, and the work you do now could set the stage for real change. Keep exploring, asking questions, and following your passion—you're on an incredible path!
Best wishes!