Psychology

Forensic Psychology

Module code: C8560
Level 6
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework, Essay

In this module, you will explore how psychology can be used to understand and enhance aspects of police investigations and security screening, such as suspect and witness interviewing and the treatment of vulnerable people in the criminal justice system.

In addition, you will learn to evaluate connections between crime and mental illness, crime and criminal typologies and interventions to reduce reoffending.

The types of questions you will encounter during the module include:

• what are the options for reducing recidivism among prisoners?
• do children make reliable witnesses, or is their testimony not to be trusted?
• how can deception be detected by investigators?
• what kinds of biases and errors affect investigators of serious crimes?
• what is the relationship between mental illness and crime?
• to what extent does the media portrayal of 'psychopathy' have any basis in psychological research?

Module learning outcomes

• Present coherent/detailed knowledge of contemporary psychological theories and research related to forensic analysis and investigation
• Understand and critically evaluate findings from forensic research that address contemporary issues surrounding the criminal justice system