Psychology and Law (340-0-1)
Instructors
Sara Cantonia Broaders
847/491-3652
Swift 243, 2029 Sheridan Road
Meeting Info
Swift Hall 210: Thurs 3:30PM - 6:20PM
Overview of class
This course will examine the complex issues involved in applying the science of psychology to the field of law. Among the topics we will cover:
-How psychological research can apply to policies and practices in the legal system
-Expert testimony
-Methods, uses, and limitations of forensic assessment
-Determination of legal competence
-The insanity defense
-Syndromes (Battered Women's Syndrome/Rape Trauma Syndrome) in the legal arena
-Criminal profiling types, methods, and limitations
-Eyewitness testimony and other memory issues
-Interrogation and confessions
-Jury selection and decision making
-Prisons and death penalty
Registration Requirements
Prerequisite: Psychology 110
Teaching Method
Primarily discussion supplemented with videos/documentaries and some brief lectures. This is a reading-intensive course
Evaluation Method
Quizzes; Weekly critical thought papers; A final project/paper; Class participation
Class Materials (Required)
1. Costanzo, M., & Krauss, D. (2018). Forensic and legal psychology: Psychological science applied to law, 3rd edition. New York: Worth Publishers. ISBN: 9781319060312. (The second edition of the textbook is also acceptable.)
2. Ewing, C.P., & McCann, J.T. (2006). Minds on trial: Great cases in law and psychology. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN: 9780195181760
3. The class will also use a variety of reading materials from other sources, which will be available on the Canvas course management system.
Class Attributes
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area