Reconstructive psychological assessment (RPA) applied to the analysis of digital behavioral residues in forensic contexts

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore advances in indirect personality assessment, with emphasis on the psychology of digital behavior based on the analysis of new technological devices and platforms for interpersonal relationships, identifying – along the way – those findings that may be useful to carry out a reconstructive psychological assessment (RPA) of applicability in the legal context. Design/methodology/approach Different fields of knowledge are explored, transferring the findings to the field of psychology of digital behavior, analyzing the publications that report findings on the analysis of new technological devices and platforms for interpersonal relationships and identifying – along the way – those findings that may result useful to carry out an RPA of applicability in the legal context. Findings The application of RPA represents a significant advance in the integration of criminal psychology and forensic technology in legal contexts, opening new fields of action for forensic psychology. Originality/value The article has transferred advances in computer science to the field of forensic psychology, with emphasis on the relevance of RPA (from the analysis of digital behavioral residues) in the interpretation of behavioral evidence for the indirect evaluation of the personality and within the judicial context (when the victim and/or accused are not included).