Principles of Forensic Psychology

GMS6365

Elective Course
Credits: 3


This course introduces the field of forensic psychology and the relationship between psychological disorders and the adversarial legal system. This course will focus on research, testimony, and oral and written consultation on psychological issues and disorders as they pertain to the administration of justice.

Course Objectives:

  • Gain an understanding of the applications of psychology to legal issues, criminal and civil
  • Gain understanding of legal cases that have helped describe or define duties of psychology within the legal system
  • Gain an understanding of the professional issues that have arisen within the field of forensic psychology
  • Acquire skills to perform legal research
  • Directly apply case law as applied to the practice of forensic psychology
  • Be able to apply behavior science principles and practices to the adversary process where specialty knowledgeable scientists play a role

Topics:

  • Module 1: Introduction to Forensic Psychology and Overview of the Legal System
  • Module 2: Ethics of Forensic Psychologists
  • Module 3: Antisocial Personality Disorders and Psychopathy: Evaluation and Legal Issues
  • Module 4: Competence to Stand Trail
  • Module 5: Malingering and Deception
  • Module 6: Violence Risk Assessment
  • Module 7: Juvenile Delinquency
  • Module 8: Pathologies of Attachment, Stalking, and Erotomania
  • Module 9: PTSD and Substance Abuse Related to Veterans and the Legal System
  • Module 10: Sex Offenses and Sexual Predators