Nov 21, 2024  
2023-2024 WWCC College Catalog 
    
2023-2024 WWCC College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PSYC 160 - Psychology of Criminal Behavior


Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
Study of criminal behavior from a psychological perspective. Special emphasis on psychiatric diagnoses most frequently encountered in the criminal justice system. Formerly: PSY 160.
Course Outcomes:
  • Compare and contrast current biological and psychological explanations for criminal behavior.
  • Distinguish between psychological aspects underlying different crimes.
  • Describe the major psychological assessment techniques and tools relevant to criminal behavior.
  • Discuss the intersection between psychology terminology and legal designations used for individuals with mental illnesses.
Course Topics:
  1. Psychological disorders and the DSM-5 classification system
  2. Psychological perspectives on the origins of criminal behavior
  3. Psychopathy
  4. Interpersonal aggression and violence
  5. Crimes of intimidation
  6. Sexual assault and sexual offenses
  7. Juvenile offenders
  8. Psychological evaluation in the judicial system
Course Attribute(s): Social Science