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Psychology and Policing

Psychological Contributions to Understanding Crime

Forensic psychology concerns the application of psychology to the understanding and operation of legal and criminal justice systems. Theories and knowledge from a broad range of domains can be applied within forensic contexts. This subject of study demonstrates how knowledge from the domains of biological, cognitive, developmental, social and personality, and mental health psychology have been successfully employed to address forensic questions and issues. Students are presented with an introduction to key areas of forensic psychology and major theories of crime are offered and evaluated. Societal constructions of criminality and the changing nature of criminality are examined. Psychological explanations of crime are applied to contemporary issues and appraised. Potential limitations of psychology within forensic settings are explored.
Please Note:  If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.
Find out more about the <a href="https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/essentials/rights/academic-integrity/aip/" target="_blank">Academic Integrity module</a>.

Untangle the ‘why’ behind crime by better understanding the perpetrators psyche. You’ll consider how elements such as biology, personality and mental health impact are at play. Get an introduction to forensic psychology and major theories of crime. 

Psychologists have assisted the work of the police in a number of ways and this subject of study introduces applications of psychology to police operations. Topics covered include false confessions and testimony, police interviewing, facial recognition, and eyewitnesses and error. The rise of evidence-based policing has encouraged psychologists to work closely with the police on developing practices that are grounded in empirical research, and this approach will be critically assessed. Police officers frequently experience work related stress and ways in which psychologists can assist officers in responding to stress are also examined. Students will be provided with an overview of the opportunities and limitations of police-psychology collaborations. The need for a pragmatic approach underscores this subject of study.
Please Note:  If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.
Find out more about the <a href="https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/essentials/rights/academic-integrity/aip/" target="_blank">Academic Integrity module</a>.

Learn how psychology can help police. You’ll dive head-first into false confessions and testimony, interviewing, facial recognition, eyewitnesses and human error. Beyond prosecution, learn how psychologists can assist police in times of stress.  

Curtin University Forensics Short courses | Open Universities Australia

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