Survey of Forensic Psychology

Catalog description

This course introduces the student to the complex field of forensic psychology. The course focuses upon how the law has affected the practice of psychology, psychological research on legal issues and processes, and the functioning of psychology in a legal environment. The student will learn fundamental distinctions between psychology and law in areas such as epistemology, behavioral causation, methodology, criteria, principles, and expert approach to data. Numerous landmark cases will be reviewed that demonstrate the psychologist’s role as expert witness, consultant, and amicus curiae. Special sections will focus upon the law in mental health practice as well as assessment of simulation and deception.