Course results for Griffith University Psychology & mental health Subjects

Examine how psychologists use psychological theory and research within the criminal justice setting. Focus on psychological assessments in court, criminal behaviour and responsibility, predicting dangerousness, juries and eyewitness testimony.

Address the question, ‘what is it about individuals and their experiences that produce criminal behaviour?’ Explore 9 theories: evolutionary, genetic, biobehavioural, psychodynamic, trait, behavioural, social learning, moral development and environmental.

Investigate the legal constructs of insanity and the psychiatric constructs of intellectual disability and mental disorders. Evaluate the relationship between crime, dangerousness and mental disorders in the context of forensic mental health.

Gain an overview of the role of mental health and offending in the forensic mental health client population. Examine and evaluate psychiatric interventions that are useful in a forensic mental health system. 

Scrutinise the areas in which the criminal justice system and psychological theories of behaviour intersect. Study the roles of various actors in courts, such as judges, juries, expert witnesses, eyewitnesses, victims and defendants.

Draw on psychological principles and research to identify strategies to change behaviour within the correctional system. Probe specific rehabilitation programs used in both in community and institutional settings to question the rehabilitation ideal.

Understand how risk assessment tools and management processes are applied to key offender populations. This subject focuses on the prediction of an individual's likelihood of being harmed or harming others due to developmental or environmental factors.

Research risk assessment approaches and evaluate their application. Gain the skills to articulate which tools and methods are appropriate for different situations. Learn how to use risk management strategies to inform decision your making.

Delve into legal and ethical issues you’ll need to consider when working with people with special needs and minority groups. Appreciate the importance of inclusive practice, modified clinical applications, assessment and interventions with these groups.