PSYC 3350 - Introduction to Forensic Psychology

(3) Credit Hours
Prerequisite: PSYC 1102; PSYC 2000 or PSYC 2010; PSYC 2400 or PSYC 3301; or permission of instructor for non-psychology majors.
This course will provide an overview of the field of clinical forensic psychology and the various ways in which psychology interacts with the legal system. This course will acquaint students with the substantive laws that are addressed in forensic evaluations (e.g., legal definitions of competency and criminal responsibility) and the ways in which forensic psychological practice may differ from general clinical practice (e.g., the importance of obtaining and evaluating third-party information when conducting forensic assessments). The nature and importance of relevant ethical principles governing the practice of psychology in relation to the legal system will also be discussed. Specific topics include psychological testimony, civil commitment, assessments of dangerousness, the rights of mentally disabled individuals, competency to stand trial, child custody disputes and assessment of psychological damages in civil litigation. The appropriate scope and limitations of psychological practice and techniques in relation to the legal system will be discussed throughout the course.