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CJS 371 Psychology and the Criminal Justice System

This course is an interdisciplinary study of psychology in the criminal justice system. Students will focus on the application of psychological theories (e.g., developmental, neuropsychological, and social learning approaches) to criminal behavior, as well as the influence of psychological principles on law enforcement, court processes and corrections. Some topics may include forensic psychology, race and policing, wrongful convictions, jury decision making and effective interventions in corrections.

Prerequisites

4 Undergraduate credits

Effective August 18, 2018 to present

Learning outcomes

General

  • Ability to describe and apply psychological theories to crime causation and the criminal justice system.
  • Develop an awareness of the current state of scientific literature in psychology and the criminal justice system.
  • Refine writing and critical thinking skills in the context of analyzing the appropriateness of psychological research and methods in various arenas of psychology and the criminal justice system.
  • Recognize common myths and misperceptions about psychology and the criminal justice system.
  • Become familiar with the wide range of psychologists¿ roles in the criminal justice system.
  • Identify and evaluate the different affective, behavioral and cognitive processes of criminal behavior.

Spring 2025

Section Title Instructor books eservices
50 Psychology and the Criminal Justice System Blair, Lesli D Books for CJS-371-50 Spring 2025 Course details for CJS-371-50 Spring 2025