Diploma in Popular Forensic Psychology
The term “forensic” is generally used to refer to psychologists who work with offenders, and/or victims of crime. Forensic psychology is concerned with the application of psychological principles within the judicial system, as it examines the interface between criminal justice and psychology. The focus of this course aims to train students to apply psychological insights, concepts and skills to the understanding and functioning of the legal and criminal justice system.
Programme Aims and Objectives Due to its diverse nature, this course aims to present ten lectures designed for the student to gain a knowledge and understanding of the practical application of psychological principles in a forensic environment. The many facets of the work of a forensic psychologist will be outlined and students will obtain knowledge on crime and criminal behaviour. The clinical and forensic assessment of psychopathy and the many types of criminal offenders, including homicidal offenders will be presented. Programme Structure The programme will be delivered on a lecture/ workshop basis, with practical exercises, which illuminate the area and provide the basis for an interactive session. Emphasis will be placed on interaction and participation throughout the course, and multimedia methods will be used to reference case studies and current issues in forensic psychology.
Programme Content
Introduction to Forensic Psychology
An overview of the many areas of criminal and forensic psychology, its history, the settings in which forensic psychologists might work, careers in the field and requirements for employment.
An Introduction to Forensic Psychology
The definitions of forensic and criminal psychology are discussed together with the difficulties associated with defining crime. Roles and responsibilities of forensic psychologist are outlined and some of the issues associated with the criminal justice system in Ireland are examined.
Psychology of Criminal Behaviour
The background to criminal behaviour is examined. Theories of crime are proposed and the effectiveness of biological/sociological/psychological approaches in explaining criminal behaviour is questioned.
The Clinical and Forensic Assessment of Psychopathy
The clinical and forensic assessment of “psychopaths” is studied. The varying definitions of psychopaths, antisocial personality disorder and sociopaths are explored.
Sexual Offenders
Pedophilia and sexual offenders are researched. Children are focused on in particular and issues such as societal responses to child sexual abuse and children as witnesses are explored.
Psychological Profiles of Homicidal Offenders
The area of investigative psychology is pursued. The nature of murder and the history, classification and motivation of homicidal offenders is explored. The Evaluation and Treatment of Offenders: Current trends in the evaluation and treatment of offenders is presented and the management of psychopaths in prison is discussed. Assessing malingering is also investigated. Interviewing & Interrogation The methods that psychologists and other professionals utilise when interviewing witnesses, suspects and victims regarding crime is presented.
Assessment To be awarded the Diploma in Forensic Psychology, a student will be required to complete a written assignment and a case study assignment (100%). Further Study Options As this Diploma programme provides students with a foundation in the area of psychology students many wish to proceed to study one of the DBS diploma or degrees in Psychology (minimum entry requirements will apply).
“As an introductory course this gives a fascinating insight into the working life of a forensic psychologist. The range and depth of topics and cases discussed are equalled only by the variety of teaching approaches used. Both make for an enthralling combination; the classes were always fun, never dull – I would highly recommend this course for anyone who has an interest in the field of criminal psychology.” Susan Gray
Diploma in Popular Forensic Psychology
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