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. (2021). Forensic and legal psychology: Psychological science applied to law, 4th edition. New York: Worth Publishers. ISBN: 9781319244880. (The third 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

Ethical and Evaluative Thinking Foundational Disci
Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
U.S. Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Ethics & Values Distro Area
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Prerequisites apply, see description