M33 Psychology and Criminal Behaviour
Aims and Learning Outcomes
This module aims to introduce students to the domain of criminal behaviour from a predominantly psychological theoretical perspective.
By the end of this modules students are expected
- to be aware of the variety of offending behaviours, the means required for managing them and methods for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
- to have an understanding of the contexts (environmental, social and psychological) within which criminal behaviour occurs.
- to have an insight into the special needs of mentally disordered offenders and their assessment, treatment and management.
Course Convenor
Professor Derek Perkins and Dr Alex Lord
Other Contributors
Dr John Lumsden, Dr Paola Carr-Walker, Dr Karen Bullock, Dr David Shelton, Nicola Wallis, Fiona Clark, Lars Luno, John Cordwell, Dr Alex Lord, Dr Sarah Gladden
Contact Hours
20
Required Prerequisite Study
A first degree in Psychology.
Completion Requirement
The course carries 15 course credits and requires a total of 20 contact hours in the form of lectures and seminars. Students are expected to invest a minimum of 100 hours in study time. The course is introductory.
Assessments
Essay (3000 words) (50% of the final mark)
Students will be given a list of 5 essay titles to choose from at the beginning of the semester. These essays are marked by one of: Alex Lord, Darren Lumbard, Nicola Wallis. Second marking (subject to normal regulations) is by Derek Perkins.
Examination (50% of the final mark)
Students will have to answer 3 essay style questions from a selection of five in 90 minutes. The exam is marked by Alex Lord, Darren Lumbard, and Nicola Wallis. Moderation (subject to normal regulations) is by Derek Perkins.
Suggested Reading
Andrews, D.S. & Bonta, J. (1998) The psychology of criminal conduct. (2nd ed.) Cincinnati: Anderson.
Blackburn, R. (1993) The psychology of criminal conduct: theory, research and practice. Chichester: Wiley & Sons.
Cooke, D.J., Forth, A.D. & Hare, R.D. (eds) (1998) Psychopathy: Theory, research and implications for society. Dordrecht: Netherlands: Kluwer.
Eysenck, H. & Gudjonsson, G. (1989) The causes and cures of criminality. New York: Plenum Press.
Hare, R.D. (1998) Without conscience: the disturbing world of the psychopath among us. New York: Guildford Press.
Kroner, D.G., & Mills, J.F. (2001). The accuracy of five risk appraisal instruments in predicting institutional misconduct and new convictions. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 28, 471-489.
McGuire, J. (ed) (1995) What works: reducing offending. Chichester: Wiley & Sons.
McGuire, J. (ed) (2002) Offender Rehabilitation and Treatment: Effective Programmes and Policies to Reduce Re-offending. Chichester: Wiley & Sons.
Further reading will be recommended during the course of the module.