FOR80010 - Introduction to Forensic Psychology

(3 units)

This course provides a foundational understanding of the dynamic, multidimensional, sometimes dysfunctional, relationship between psychology and the legal system, as well as of the evolving application of psychology to issues of justice, safety, and security. The course focuses on both criminal and civil areas of practice, and on topics such as forensic evaluation; mental illness and adjudication; competency in legal proceedings; risk assessment; child custody; perception, cognition, and witnesses; expert testimony; trial consulting; and legal decision-making. The course also highlights psychologically informed laws and legal principles such as “psychiatric holds,” civil commitment, sexual predator statutes, juvenile waivers to adult court, and more.