Psychology

PSYCH 342

Psychology and Legal Issues

Course Description
This course is a study of the interface between psychology and the law. Psychological aspects of legal issues will be discussed from theoretical, empirical, and applied perspectives, along with an overview of legal procedures. Research and theory from social psychology, cognitive psychology, law, and forensic psychology will be explored. Topics include, but are not limited to, how lawyers and psychologists are trained, the role of social science research in the legal system, the psychology of juries (selection, deliberation, and decision making), trial and courtroom proceedings, eyewitness testimony, the insanity defense, conceptions of justice, the death penalty, police interrogations, and the psychology of law enforcement and sentencing.

Prerequisites
PSYC 200 and PSYC 201

Offered
Alternate years

Course Credit
Three hours

Course Professor
Dr. Klaaren