Course Number and Title:
CRJ 231 Forensic Psychology
Prerequisites
CRJ 101 and CRJ 115 and ENG 102
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course studies the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system with a focus on the psychological causes of adult and juvenile crime. The course explores the impact of psychological theories and research on the understanding of criminal behavior as well as evaluating risk and shaping law and policy.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
Distinguish key concepts and theories of forensic psychology. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 4, 5)
Explain the role of forensic psychology in the criminal justice system. (CCC 1, 2, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
Examine the various causes and components of human behavior. (CCC 1, 2, 3; PGC 4)
Analyze the ethical issues related to the practice of forensic psychology. (CCC 2, 4; PGC 4, 5)
Apply the concepts of forensic psychology to different cases. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
Examine evaluation and assessment tools used in forensic psychology. (CCC 2, 3, 4; PGC 3)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Distinguish key concepts and theories in forensic psychology.
- Identify accepted theories in forensic psychology.
- Distinguish between the major accepted theories.
- Describe the strengths and limitations of selected theories.
- Explain the role of forensic psychology in the criminal justice system.
- Explain the concept of justice and its relationship to forensic psychology.
- Describe the legal components relevant to forensic psychology.
- Describe the role of forensic psychology in juvenile and adult justice systems.
- Examine the various causes and components of human behavior.
- Discuss common factors that motivate human behavior.
- Describe how historical and cultural views on behavior have evolved.
- Examine the influence of social, cultural, economic, and class factors on human behavior.
- Identify current approaches and trends in behavioral treatment.
- Analyze the ethical issues related to the practice of forensic psychology.
- Define professionalism, ethics, and morality.
- Examine the ethical code governing forensic psychologists.
- Apply the code of ethics to various scenarios that may arise in forensic psychology.
- Apply the concepts of forensic psychology to different cases.
- Apply theoretical concepts to real or simulated forensic psychology cases.
- Incorporate cultural and ethical considerations when analyzing cases.
- Apply forensic psychology knowledge and techniques to interpret case information.
- Examine evaluation and assessment tools used in forensic psychology.
- Explain the general purpose of evaluation and assessment tools.
- Compare and contrast major evaluation and assessment tools used in forensic psychology.
- Describe how cultural and ethnic factors influence the use of evaluation and assessment tools.
- Distinguish between evaluation and assessment tools used with juvenile and adult populations.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Grade |
Summative Assessments |
Exams (2-3) (equally weighted) | 30% |
Case Study Analysis | 15% |
Final Presentation | 15% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments, including but not limited to: Quizzes Assignments Career research Journals Discussion boards
| 40% |
Total | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
- Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
- Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
- Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
- Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.