Department of Counselling Psychology Course outline
Programme Master of Social Sciences in Psychology
Course Title Criminal Behaviors
Course Code PSY565
Number of Credits 3
Duration of Weeks 15
Contact Hours Per Week 2.5 hours lecture
Pre-requisite Course(s) N/A
Course Aims
This course aims to provide a theoretical understanding of the multidisciplinary study of criminal behaviors. Students will be acquainted with the dynamics of crime and criminal behaviour from multiple perspectives. In particular, the study of criminal acts will be highlighted by the interactions among psychological, biological, developmental and social factors. Students will be equipped with theoretical skills to explore the core areas of criminal psychology. Real case examples, class activities and discussion will be provided to enhance knowledge application in understanding the diversity of criminal behaviour.
Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOS)

Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

 

  1. Identify the psychological, biological, developmental, and social factors in shaping criminal behaviour

  2. Appraise the relationship between mental disorders and criminal behaviour

  3. Evaluate different types of criminal act, such as homicide, serial murders, sexual assaults, and terrorism

  4. Analyze a criminal case with theoretical support, and be able to discuss the typology of the offender according to the crimes committed

  5. Critically evaluate theories and research in criminal psychology
Assessment

 
Assessment Tasks
Weighting
1.
Participation
10 %
2.
Group project presentation
20 %
3.
Case evaluation report
20 %
4.
Closed-book Tests
50 %
 
 
100%
For Reference Only
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