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Applications of Forensic Psychology - PSY00082M

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  • Department: Psychology
  • Module co-ordinator: Mr. John Fisher
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2021-22

Module summary

This broad module will look at a range of applications for forensic psychology. It will provide students with the theoretical background and knowledge of the criminal justice framework in order to scrutinise the contributions of psychologists working in legal, health and forensic settings.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2021-22
B Spring Term 2021-22

Module aims

  • To inform understanding of the criminal justice system and the context in which forensic psychologists work.
  • To introduce students to the contributions forensic psychologists have made to many aspects of the criminal justice process.
  • To provide the opportunity for students to continue to develop and refine skills in critical analysis and presentation

Module learning outcomes

  • Recognise and understand the criminal justice framework and evaluate the utility of psychological theories to aid understanding for the causes of criminal behaviour.
  • Evaluate various biological, sociological and psychological theories of crime and how these might be applied to a case study.
  • Highlight the psychological processes operating in courtrooms, and critically evaluate the research evidence that attempts to explain how and why some jurors are susceptible to bias.
  • Identify and evaluate factors that may impact on the accuracy of eyewitness memories and what steps investigators can take to minimise their influence.
  • Critically evaluate the extent to which crime is a consequence of mental disorder.
  • Reflect on the prevalence, aetiology, and practical implications of suicidal behaviour in prison settings and critically evaluate the underlying theory that is used to explain these behaviours.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and technologies used to reduce re-offending.
  • Present and critically evaluate research findings with confidence.

Module content

  1. The Criminal Justice Framework
  2. Theories of Crime
  3. Eyewitness Testimony
  4. Juror Decision-Making
  5. Crime and Mental Disorder
  6. Suicidal Behaviour in Forensic Settings
  7. Forensic Psychology in the Community
  8. Using Technology for Rehabilitation

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark Group
Essay/coursework
Essay 3000 words		 N/A 40 Default
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Applications of Forensic Psychology		 N/A 60 Default
Essay/coursework
Essay 3000 words		 N/A 40 B
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Applications of Forensic Psychology		 N/A 60 B

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark Group
Essay/coursework
Essay 3000 words		 N/A 40 Default
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Applications of Forensic Psychology		 N/A 60 Default
Essay/coursework
Essay 3000 words		 N/A 40 B
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Applications of Forensic Psychology		 N/A 60 B

Module feedback

Marks will be released through e:vision.

Indicative reading

To Be Confirmed


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.