Psychology & Law

Catalog description

Explores the influence that psychology (both theory and research) has had, historically, on legal policy and decision making. Discusses the ways that psychology and law both interact and conflict ideologically, and explores the areas that psychological researchers might contribute to this interaction. The topics covered include: The history of psychology and law; lie detection; interrogations and confessions; various features of forensics, such as DNA, fingerprints, and other trace evidence; eyewitness identification and testimony; jury selection and trial process; assessments for violent behavior; sentencing and imprisonment; and the death penalty. Provides an enhanced understanding of what areas of focus exist, how psychological research in these fields are conducted, and how this research has been applied by police, attorneys, judges, and legislators.