PY0572 - Psychological Perspectives on Crime

What will I learn on this module?

On this module, you will explore a range of topics to develop an understanding of the approaches to research and knowledge generation in forensic psychology. Possible topics include Serial Killers, Sex Offenders, and victims, exploring questions such as ‘What makes a serial killer?’, ‘What underlying factors drive the behaviour of sex offenders?’ and ‘how are victims often retraumatised by the Criminal Justice System?’. These will be approached scientifically with reference to published research and theoretical frameworks. Discussions will examine the contribution made by forensic psychology research to our understanding of the causes, treatment and prevention of criminal behaviour in tandem with theoretical models, ethical considerations and cultural and societal beliefs and practices.

How will I learn on this module?

You will attend weekly lectures that will provide the framework for the development of understanding based on wider reading. These will be supported by discussion seminars led by invited guest speakers, and associated directed and independent learning.

Videos will also be used to provide examples related to the topics covered and to generate discussion around how scientific information is communicated to and understood by the general public, with a particular focus on popular culture.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

The module tutor will support you by making a variety of resources linked to the lectures and assessments available on the eLearning Portal (e.g. PowerPoint slides, lectures handouts) along with links to resources to encourage further exploration of specific research topics. A discussion board on the eLearning Portal will be available for students to pose and respond to questions among peers and to the module tutor. This enhances collegiality and also means that support is available to all students. Technology enabled learning will be implemented through the use of Panopto recording software, online submission and marking of the summative assessment, along with the incorporation of different media formats into the lectures and seminars

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MK1: You will be expected to demonstrate understanding of a range of topics in forensic psychology by sourcing, critiquing and reviewing a range of peer reviewed research publications
• MK2: You will competently apply evidence to forensic psychological debate, to justify own opinions

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MIP1: You will develop skills in sourcing, critiquing and reviewing a range of peer reviewed research publications
• MIP2: You will take charge of your own career development learning, through critical self-evaluation and reflection on the relevance of the module for career enhancement and future learning.


Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MPV1: You will develop and reinforce the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate by building research skills to contribute to knowledge generation and dissemination, demonstrating awareness of ethical principles

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment
This will take place through discussion based tasks where you will consider questions relating to the ethics of treating offenders, and critiquing theories of behaviour (MK1, MK2)

Summative Assessment
The first is an assignment (3000 words) that will review and integrate research on a topic to answer a set question (MK1, MK2, MIP1, MPV1). This will be worth 90% of the module mark.

The second assessment is a self-reflective account in which you will be asked to consider how this module has impacted on your employability and future career (MIP2). This will be worth 10% of the module mark (500 words)

Feedback
Verbal group feedback will be given for formative discussions in class

For the first summative assessment, individual written feedback will be provided on the electronic submission. As a minimum, this will identify a strength, a weakness and an area for improvement.

You will be required to arrange a tutorial with your Personal Guidance Tutor for formal feedback on your reflection.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

This module will enable you to explore a number of topics that are core to the study of forensic psychology and that generate great interest from students, for example you may cover serial killers, sex offenders and terrorists; what drives their behaviour, and how can we understand and change it? You will also learn about crime from a victim perspective, from the emotional effects to the way society treats victims. The module focusses on research and scientific approaches to what can be emotionally laden aspects of criminal behaviour. How knowledge is developed and what we do and do not know will be clearly delineated so that you begin to appreciate what forensic psychology is and what it can offer to society.

Course info

UCAS Code C800

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with optional study abroad year

School Psychology

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

 

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

 

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

 

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies. 

 

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