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Applications of Forensic Psychology - PSY00053H

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  • Department: Psychology
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2023-24
B Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

This broad module will look at a range of applications for forensic psychology. It will provide students with the theoretical background and knowledge of the criminal justice framework in order to scrutinise the contributions of psychologists working in legal, health and forensic settings.

Please note that forensic psychology often deals with sensitive information, such as sexual offending, as well as suicide and self-harm among offenders. Your wellbeing is our priority so please consider the impact that this material may have on you should you choose to pursue this module. If you believe that you may find some of the lecture/seminar material distressing, but still want to select this module choice, please get in touch with Karisha George (karisha.k.george@york.ac.uk) to discuss any additional support that we can provide.

Module learning outcomes

  • Recognise and explain the criminal justice framework.
  • Evaluate various biological, sociological and psychological theories of crime and how these might be applied to a case study.
  • Highlight the psychological processes operating in courtrooms and describe how and why some jurors are susceptible to bias.
  • Identify factors that may impact on the accuracy of eyewitness memories and what steps investigators can take to minimise their influence.
  • Critically evaluate the extent to which crime is a consequence of mental disorder.
  • Reflect on the prevalence, aetiology, underlying theory and practical implications of suicidal behaviour in prison settings.
  • Consider the effectiveness of interventions and technologies used to reduce re-offending.
  • Appreciate the different approaches to psychological crime-scene analysis and evaluate evidence of their effectiveness.
  • Present and critically evaluate research findings with confidence.

Module content

  • The Criminal Justice Framework
  • Theories of Crime
  • Eyewitness Testimony
  • Juror Decision-Making
  • Crime and Mental Disorder
  • Suicidal Behaviour in Forensic Settings
  • Sex offenders
  • Terrorism
  • Offender Profiling

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Marks will be released through e:vision.

Indicative reading

Not Specified.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.