PY0665 - Mental Health Problems and Crime

What will I learn on this module?

On this module, you will examine the association of mental health problems with criminal behaviour. As part of this module, you will be introduced to a diverse range to topics within the field of mental health and crime. You will explore research assessing the association of mental health problems with criminal behaviour. You will also discuss the efficacy of interventions that aim to prevent people with mental health problems from engaging in crime. As part of this module, you will be introduced to key debates within this field. Moreover, this will be discussed from a clinical and forensic perspective. Therefore, this module will incorporate elements of both clinical and forensic psychology.

How will I learn on this module?

This module will be taught through a combination of lectures, interactive in-class activities, and tutorials. Moreover, students will be directed towards materials for independent study.

Each week you will attend an interactive two-hour lecture. During these sessions, you will learn about key topics in the area of mental health problems and crime. Videos will be incorporated into the teaching sessions to provide an interactive learning experience. Moreover, there will be the opportunity for group-discussions. These will develop effective oral communication skills.

These sessions will provide you with a framework that can be developed further through independent study and wider reading. You will be directed towards reading lists. These reading lists will aid independent study. Independent study will also be promoted through providing students with study questions. By engaging in these tasks and reflecting on the skills learn, students will develop important career development skills, such as self-reflection.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

The module will provide numerous resources to help develop your knowledge. Lecture material will be made available on the e-learning portal. Additional materials will also be provided to encourage further exploration into this area. A discussion board will be available on the e-learning portal to allow students to both ask and respond to questions provided by their peers. The module tutor will also support students through the discussion board. The module will also use technology to support students. This involves the use of Panopto recording software and online submission of assessments.

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 able to demonstrate an understanding of the influence of mental health problems on criminal behaviour and the efficacy of interventions that aim to prevent people with mental health problems from engaging in crime.
• MK2: You will be able to apply psychological theories to address issues within this area

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MIP1: You will demonstrate problem-solving skills through the application of empirical-research to address an issue within this area
• MIP2: You will enhance your ability to engage in critical self-reflection, thereby allowing you to manage your career development

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MPV1: By applying problem-based learning and collaborative group work, you will be demonstrating the skills of a Northumbria University psychology graduate

How will I be assessed?

Formative assessment
During the interactive sessions and workshops, you will be asked to engage in group discussions relating to debates and issues within this field. Such activities will be evaluated by the module tutor and peers within the session. (MIP1; MPV1)

Summative Assessment
For the main assessment, you will be required to submit an individual piece of work (3,500 words), accounting for 90% of your grade. You will be required to use knowledge of theories and research to address an issue within the topic of mental health problems and crime. (MK1; MK2; MIP1; MPV1)

The second assessment is a critical self-reflection on how this module relates to your pathway and how it has enhanced your employability. This counts for 10% of your grade. (MIP2)

Pre-requisite(s)

na

Co-requisite(s)

na

Module abstract

The influence of mental health problems on crime is a highly debated topic. In this module, you will explore this research area from a clinical and forensic psychological perspective. Through lectures and interactive activities, you will explore key topics within this area. This will involve discussing the role of mental health problems on criminal behaviour and the efficacy of interventions that aim to prevent people with mental health problems from engaging in crime. There are two assessments for this module. The first assessment is an essay where you will be asked to apply your knowledge of theories and research to address an issue within the topic of mental health problems and crime. The second assignment is a short reflective account where you will be asked to consider the skills you acquired through this module and discuss how these can be applied to your pathway and future career.

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

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