Criminal psychology can be defined as a branch of applied psychology concerned w
Criminal psychology can be defined as a branch of applied psychology concerned with the collection, examination, and presentation of evidence for judicial purposes. The role of a psychologist in criminal investigations can take a variety of forms. For example, there are criminal psychologists specifically involved in assessing and making treatment commendations or trial and sentencing. The area of psychology and law continues to grow rapidly.
Laws help resolve conflict, protect the public, and are established for public safety. As a society, we have established procedures to help control behaviors that may pose a risk for others or violate others’ rights. According to the course textbook, rules of etiquette help us deal with conflict between one person’s impulses and another person’s rights. Two distinct models, both with varying perspectives and characteristics, guide the criminal justice system. These models represent two philosophical approaches toward why certain choices are made within the legal system.
Using the South University Online Library or the Internet, conduct research on criminal psychology and models of criminal justice. {Visiting the American Psychological Association (APA) or American Psychological–Law Society are good resources for your research, as well}.
Based on your research and understanding, address the following:
Explore and describe various aspects of the role of a psychologist in the legal system.
Categorize and describe four careers related to the field of psychology and the law. Explain some of the ethical issues encountered by each of these four careers you identified.
Classify the roles and duties of a forensic psychologist and summarize how ethics play a role in the field of forensic psychology.
Analyze and discuss four specific reasons on why we have laws.
Analyze what is meant by the psychological approach to studying the law.
Describe the two models of the criminal justice system and characterize each from the perspective of its values and focus. Compare these two models with respect to morality and legality.
Analyze and explain the two schools of thought that guide the judicial decision-making process.
Compare these schools of thought, citing at least three similarities and three differences between the two. Discuss how judges and attorneys use them in legal practice.
Submission Details:
Post your response to the Discussion Area by the due date assigned. Respond to at least two posts by the end of the week.