PSY6402 - Applied Forensic Psychology

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of a range of psychological theories relevant to the field of forensic psychology and be able to apply them to the risk assessment and treatment of different types of offenders;
Critically evaluate the contributions of psychology at all levels (i.e. from the detection of crime to the prosecution, incarceration and rehabilitation of offenders);
Demonstrate a critical awareness of a range of ethical issues within forensic psychology.

Content:

This module allows students to apply their knowledge and understanding of Forensic Psychology to a range of contemporary issues within the Criminal Justice System and be able to develop evidence-based solutions in order to effect positive change.

Students will work in groups to discuss topics pertinent to Forensic Psychology in the UK and around the world. Students will apply their knowledge in order to suggest ways to reduce the risk of re-offending. Topics will include risk assessment, self-harm and suicide, forensic mental health and a range of approaches to treatment including cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and group offending behaviour programmes.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The majority of sessions in this module will be workshop based teaching where students work in small groups to discuss issues and undertake a range of tasks. Some sessions will be delivered using a problem-based learning approach, where students will work in small groups which are facilitated by the tutor.
A wider range of materials will be provided on Moodle to support students in their independent learning. The time allocated for guided self-management activities will allow students to use a variety of library facilities such as book chapters, journals and online resources.

Workshops/Problem based learning
Contact hours: 36
Intended Group size: cohort

Guided independent study
164 Hours

Further details relating to assessment
The assessment is a case study designed in order that students can implement risk assessment and design a comprehensive treatment plan (3,000 words) to suggest evidence-based ways to reduce the risk of reoffending in a violent young offender.
The student also receives a bi-weekly report on the prisoner's progress and is asked to respond reflectively and with consideration of the ethical and practical implications (1,000 words).
Other relevant matters
This module is for Forensic Psychology Programme students and Criminology (proposed) students only.

Assessment:

001 Reflective observations and Case study 4000 words end of sem 1 100%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Paul Smith
Level - 6
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY STUDENTS ONLY
Semester(s) Offered - 6S1

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