PSYC 276 — Forensic Psychology
The goals of the course are to familiarize students with the nature and scope of forensic psychology, to describe in more detail some of the specific responsibilities and activities of forensic psychologists, and to familiarize students with the theory and empirical evidence that guide forensic psychologists in their work within the legal system. Forensic psychology is the combined subfield of psychology and law, applying the concepts and practices of psychological research and study to the legal system and its many components. This course will familiarize students with the contributions of psychology to the criminal justice system, the theory, principles, and research applied to legal issues, and the nature and scope of practice for forensic psychologists. Examination topics may include a range of ethical, moral, and professional issues, including but not limited to insanity in the commission of offenses, competency, eyewitness testimony, offender profiles, psychopathy, violent and sexual behavior, jury selection, and psychopathology.