
PSYCH580-20B (HAM)
The Psychology of Criminal Conduct
15 Points
Staff
Convenor(s)
Devon Polaschek
9224
J.1.03
devon.polaschek@waikato.ac.nz
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Administrator(s)
Librarian(s)
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Paper Description
This paper introduces students to the study of criminal behaviour from psychological perspectives, including theories of the causes of criminal propensity and specific criminal events, and strategies for assessing and changing the risk of criminal behaviour. We will also explore some of the roles of psychology and psychologists in correctional systems and consider recent challenges to the way correctional systems operate, and some innovative responses. Topics are likely to include: theories of crime, risk assessment, rehabilitation and punishment, violent and sexual offending, psychopathy, working with indigenous people and indigenous approaches to crime prevention, mental illness and crime.
Paper Structure
Lecture Outline: Lectures will run from 4 to 6 pm commencing Thursday July 16, 2020. Lecture slides will usually be made available on Moodle prior to each class. Guest lecturers may provide additional references during their lectures. Be aware that not all lecturers may agree to make slides or notes available. This is their choice but all classes will be recorded and made available remotely for those unable to attend class. At this stage we expect to use a mix of classes held on campus and class sessions on Zoom. More detail will be available as it is finalised. Once the trimester begins, refer to Moodle for the most up to date information about the timetable.
Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper should be able to:
Assessment
Assessment Components
The internal assessment/exam ratio (as stated in the University Calendar) is 100:0. There is no final exam.
Required and Recommended Readings
Required Readings
Bonta, J. & Andrews, D. A. (2016). The psychology of criminal conduct (6th ed.). London: Routledge.
The previous edition will also be very useful:
Andrews, D.A., & Bonta, J. (2010). The psychology of criminal conduct (5th ed.). Cincinnati, OH: Anderson Publishing Co.
There will be additional readings for a number of the classes. You will be advised of these on Moodle and in class.
Recommended Readings
Other readings that may assist students with their learning or essay development will be discussed during lectures. Readings may be identified and provided during the semester.
Students will want to identify their own readings for the essay.
Online Support
Student Resources:
Psychology Café: This is a Moodle space for all students and staff of the School of Psychology.
Use it to find out what is happening and what the School may provide for you. Think of it as our virtual notice board: it gives information about events, seminars, resources and study options. But unlike a notice board, it is interactive.
Graduate Virtual Common Room: http://elearn.waikato.ac.nz/course/view.php?id=22118§ion=2 (scroll down to the second section)
The Graduate Virtual Common Room has been designed to help you locate the resources you are likely to need as a graduate student, to find out what is happening in the School and to network with other graduate students.
Workload
Linkages to Other Papers
This paper is designed to complement other papers to provide students interested in a career in correctional psychology a basis for further study. Relevant papers include:
PSYC544 Psychology of Security and Crime Science (not currently offered)
PSYC560 Applied Behavioural Analysis
PSYC581 Psychological Assessment
PSYC556 Advanced Topics in Abnormal Adult Psychology
PSYC574 Principles and Theories of Cognitive / Behaviour Therapy
PSYC562 Theories in Clinical Psychology
Restriction(s)
Restricted Papers: PSYC580