Introduction to Forensic Psychology

This 10-week, 20-hour module covers the application of psychological principles within the criminal justice system, including the assessment and treatment of offenders, the psychological aspects of criminal behaviour, and the role of forensic psychologists in legal proceedings.

Learners will explore topics such as criminal profiling, the psychology of eyewitness testimony, interviewing suspects and gathering evidence and the treatment of offenders during the legal process.

The course emphasizes the importance of ethical practice, understanding the impact of crime on victims, and the application of psychological research to real-world forensic settings.

Through case studies, guest speakers, and interactive discussions, learners will develop critical thinking skills and gain insights into the field of forensic psychology.

Learning and teaching

On successful completion of the module, a student will be able to:

1. Explain the role and responsibilities of forensic psychologists within the criminal justice system.
2. Understand and apply psychological theories to explain criminal behaviour.
3. Assess the reliability of eyewitness testimony and understand factors affecting memory.
4. Evaluate psychological assessment tools and treatment programs for offenders.
5. Reflect on ethical issues and professional conduct in forensic psychology.
6. Explore the psychological impact of crime on victims and available support services.
7. Understand and apply cognitive interviewing techniques with suspects and witnesses.
8. Assess motivations and psychological state during interviews.
9. Understand mitigating factors in criminal behaviour and their application in legal contexts.
10. Navigate the structure and function of the British legal system and its interaction with forensic psychology.

Coursework and assessment

Type of assessment	% Contribution	Title
Summative	40%	Reflective Journal
Summative	60%	Forensic Case Study Analysis/Report

Reading suggestions

• Bartol, C.R. and Bartol, A.M., (2018). Introduction to forensic psychology: Research and application. Sage Publications.
• Blackburn, R., (1993). The Psychology of Criminal Conduct: Theory, Research, and Practice. Chichester: Wiley.
• Canter, D. and Alison, L., (1999). Investigative Psychology: Offender Profiling and the Analysis of Criminal Action. Chichester: Wiley.
• Weiner, I.B. and Otto, R.K. (2013). Handbook of Forensic Psychology. 4th ed. Hoboken: Wiley.
• Brown, J.M. and Campbell, E.A. (2021). The Cambridge Handbook of Forensic Psychology. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.