Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - PSYC 268 D100

Introduction to Law and Psychology (3)

Class Number: 8686

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 14, 2018
    Sat, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 102.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the area of law and psychology. The role and influence of psychology in the legal system will be discussed. Topics include: social psychology and law, developmental psychology and law, juvenile justice, experimental psychology and law, mental disability and law.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to give students an up-to-date survey of law and psychology, also known as forensic psychology. The primary focus will be on issues related to psychology and criminal law, although some issues related to civil law also will be discussed. Topics include: the justice system, pre-trial issues such as police investigations/interrogations and confessions, trial issues such as jury decision making and eyewitness testimony, and post trial issues including sentencing and parole. Special populations including children and juveniles in the criminal justice system will be considered as well as mental health issues related to competence to stand trial and particular defenses.

Topics:

Introduction and Overview of Forensic Psychology

The Canadian Legal System

Forensic Assessment in Criminal Domains

Forensic Assessment in Civil Domains

Forensic Treatment

Correctional Psychology

Juveniles in the Legal System

Children and the Law

Eyewitness Identification

Police Investigations, Interrogations, and Confessions

Police Psychology

Juries and Legal Decision Making

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The two major objectives of the course are to introduce students to:
(a) basic issues in law and psychology, focusing specifically on Canadian law; and
(b) the application of theory and methods from clinical and experimental psychology to various legal issues.

Grading

  • Mid-Term Exam: 35%
  • Tutorial Assignments: 10%
  • Writing Assignments: 10%
  • Term Paper/Project: Final Exam: 45%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Roesch, R., Zapf, P. A., Hart, S. D., & Connolly, D. A. (2014). Forensic psychology and law: A Canadian perspective. Toronto, ON: Wiley.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS