The module examines issues relating to the assessment, management and treatment of people who have committed offences from a psychological perspective. An introduction to the role of forensic psychology within secure establishments will be provided. This will explore both general and specific issues related to working with dangerous mentally disordered and non-disordered individuals. Issues relating to the assessment of mental disorder and offending behaviour and their relationship will be raised throughout the module. The importance of assessment in understanding the function of offending, identifying treatment targets and measuring change will be highlighted along with difficulties associated with such assessments. Various treatment models will be described and their application to a variety of offences discussed. This will include the special hospital setting and criminal justice setting. Gender differences will be raised with particular attention to the manifestation of mental health problems in women who offend. Forensic cases will be used to demonstrate the complexities associated with assessing and treating this population.
Private Study: 156
Contact Hours: 44
Total: 200
Compulsory to the following courses:
• MSc Forensic Psychology
Optional to the following courses:
• None
Not available as an elective module
Main assessment methods
Report (3,000 words)
Reassessment methods
Like-for-Like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the application of psychology in relation to the assessment and treatment of those who have committed offences.
2. Demonstrate a clear appreciation of forensic psychological practice, particularly in relation to the assessment and treatment of people who have committed offences, ethical issues in practice, and the production of testimony.
3. Possess a conceptual understanding of the role of Forensic Psychologists in the assessment and treatment of people who have committed offences.
4. Possess a detailed understanding of issues related to the assessment, management and treatment of mentally disordered individuals who have committed offences.
5. Possess a detailed understanding of issues related to the assessment, management and treatment of non-mentally disordered individuals who have committed offences.
6. Possess a systemic understanding of relevant professional issues involved in working with both mentally disordered and non-disordered dangerous individuals who have committed offences.
7. Demonstrate self-direction and originality through an ability to describe and critically evaluate the literature in assessment and treatment of people who have committed offences.
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