Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - PSYC 268 D100

Introduction to Law and Psychology (3)

Class Number: 10099

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 8, 2019
    Sun, 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, pretrial 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 fitness to stand trial and particular defences.

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

  • In Class Assignments: 10%
  • Quizzes: 10%
  • Midterm Exam: 35%
  • Final Exam: 45%

NOTES:

Topics:
Introduction and Overview of Forensic Psychology
The Canadian Legal System
Film: Murder on a Sunday Afternoon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFLbptkb1eM&t=4666s
Forensic Assessment in Criminal Domains
Forensic Assessment in Civil Domains
Forensic Treatment
Correctional Psychology
Eyewitness Identification
Police Psychology
Police Investigations, Interrogations, and Confessions
Juveniles in the Legal System
Children and the Law

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

An online text will be provided at no cost.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/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