Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - PSYC 268 D100

Introduction to Law and Psychology (3)

Class Number: 2613

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 13, 2021
    Mon, 3:30–6:30 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.

Classes will be held through Canvas Blackboard Collaborate Ultra. It is very important to use Canvas Blackboard Collaborate Ultra, and not the standard version. Most classes will be live, on the scheduled dates. Some classes will be recorded and provided to students by the time of the scheduled date. Classes – whether live or recorded – may be supplemented by podcasts or other audiovisual material that will be provided to students.

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.

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

Grading

  • Mid-Term Exam: 35%
  • Tutorial Assignments: 20%
  • Final Exam: 45%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

An online text will be provided at no cost.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

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

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.