2020-2021 Academic Catalog 
    
    Oct 05, 2024  
2020-2021 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PSYC 275 - Forensic Psychology

3 CR
The connection between the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes (Psychology) and criminality has become increasingly apparent in contemporary life. Incidences of psychological involvement, ranging from the development of prevention programs to assist in the determination of competence (forensic psychology) and the profiling of various perpetrators. In this course, learners will explore current research and theory regarding the effects of specific mental disorders, personality, biological influences, developmental issues, and social/environmental contributors to both general criminal behaviors, as well as specific crimes. The psychological effects of crime on the victim and society at large will also be explored.

Requisites: Take PSYC 201  with at least a grade of C.
Michigan Transfer Agreement Requirement: Social Sciences
Course Learning Outcomes:
  1. Students will demonstrate an understanding of individual cognitive, psychodynamic, and developmental theories related to criminal behavior and be able to apply these to simulated criminal situations.
  2. Students will be expected to compare and contrast these understandings both orally and in writing in a professional and scholarly manner.
  3. Students will examine and explore psychological theories and factors associated with them as they apply to life experiences or current real-life observations.
  4. Students will analyze and relate how the understanding of mental disorders and personality characteristics affect one’s response to or prediction of specific criminal behaviors via research and interview.
  5. Students will be able to define legal terminology used for the classification and treatment of and/or response to criminal behavior.