Have you ever thought about why people commit crimes? Have you found yourself wondering how different people who offend must be from you and people you know? This module will guide you through an understanding of morality, criminality, various forms criminal and aggressive behaviour and psychological, biological and sociological theories that explain them. In this module you will be visiting different types of crimes and getting acquainted with how psychological research has contributed to our understanding of thought patterns, motivations, classifications of offences and offenders. Through a combination of lectures, workshop discussions and activities you will consider how a complex interplay of personality traits, childhood experiences, cognitive processes and social influences explain why some people turn to crime while others do not. Understanding the psychology of criminal conduct is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies aimed at reducing crime and promoting rehabilitation within society.
Workshop 32
Compulsory to the following courses:
MSc Forensic Psychology
This module is not available as an optional module
Report. Assessment Details: Critical Analysis of Literature and Recommendations 5000 words worth 100%. This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.
Reassessment Method: 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 criminological theory regarding the origins of offending and rational decision making as applied to crime and offenses conducted by people who make non-normal decisions (e.g., people with psychopathy, sex offenders etc)
2) Outline the range of techniques for the study of offender behaviour and their contribution to police work, through critical evaluation of current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline
3) Form a conceptual and systemic understanding of the reality of functions of the Criminal Justice System and be able to explain to the public, using plain English, how offenders and victims of crime are dealt with by that system.
4) Apply intellectual and subject-specific skills (including critical thinking and argumentation, reasoning and reflection, information structuring, analysis and synthesis, application of theory, appropriate use of sources and clarity in thinking)
5) Demonstrate key-transferrable skills, including communication and information technology (e.g., undertaking online research, producing a written report), working with others, problem solving and improving learning (including time-management and exploring personal strengths and weaknesses).
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