PSY529 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Psychology (PSYCH)
Abstract:
This subject presents a conceptual map of the content of the Master of Psychology forensic strand. It focuses upon establishing the scientist-practitioner model as the primary orientation towards forensic practice, and outlines the key areas of forensic knowledge and competence required of forensic psychologists. Basic legal and ethical issues in the practice of forensic psychology will be considered, and an introduction to psychometrics and psychological testing will be undertaken. The subject will begin with a residential school in which students will be introduced to problem-based learning and learning in an on-line environment.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2013.Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: PSY529
Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Enrolment restrictions:
Only available to students enrolled in the Master of Psychology or Doctor of Psychology.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of the criminal justice system, the family law system and the civil litigation system
- be able to demonstrate an appreciation of issues confronting the practitioner in practising in the legal system
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of a range of theoretical models as applied to treatment and practice in professional psychology
- be able to demonstrate an awareness of the range of skills and competencies required for forensic practice
- be able to demonstrate a general understanding of the legal requirements and ethical issues involved in practising as a forensic psychologist
- be able to demonstrate awareness of the scientist-practitioner model in the practice of professional psychology
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of the principles involved in psychological test administration, and be able to interpret test results appropriately
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of problem-based learning, and use this to further their development as forensic psychologists
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of the rationale and sequence of skill development in Charles Sturt University's forensic training program, and be aware of the implications of studying by distance education
- be able to demonstrate the prerequisite skills for undertaking forensic placements in applied settings, as required for other subjects in the course
- be able to use computer systems as a major method of learning
- be able to interact with other people on computer systems
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- The history of forensic psychology - An overview of the Australian legal system - Theoretical approaches to forensic psychology - Theories of offenders and offending behaviour - Forensic assessment, formal psychological assessment and the clinical interview - Professional and ethical issues in forensic practice - The range of forensic interventions - The evaluation of forensic interventions - The inductive case approach to psychological practice
Residential School
This subject contains a compulsory 2.5 day residential school.
No change to the purpose and activities of the existing residential school.
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 February 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.