Why do people falsely confess to crimes they didn’t commit? Why are innocent people sometimes identified by eyewitnesses? How can investigators get the best evidence from eyewitnesses? How do juries—groups of 12 strangers—come to a decision during a trial? These are some of the core questions that legal psychologists (and students like you) strive to answer. In this course, you will apply knowledge and theories from social, cognitive, and developmental psychology to issues facing the legal system.
Legal psychology involves applying psychological science to the legal and criminal justice systems. Legal issues ranging from investigations to trial and sentencing are examined from social, cognitive, and developmental psychological perspectives. Students will understand how psychological principles influence thinking and behavior in legal contexts.
Demonstrate a foundational understanding of psychological science and its basic theories by summarizing and discussing empirical research from various behavioral science sources.
Apply psychological theories and methodologies to different aspects of the legal system, such as investigations, trials, corrections, and public policy, through engaging class discussions and case studies.
Apply psychological theories and empirical findings to case studies, identifying potential psychological factors that could impact legal outcomes.
Propose practical applications of legal psychology research that could contribute to improving legal processes, enhancing the pursuit of justice, or influencing public policy decisions.
Design a project that uses psychological principles to address a specific social issue, challenge, or research question.
Introduction to the Legal System
Eyewitness Memory—General Principles
Lineup Identifications
Cognitive Interviewing & NICHD Protocol
Children and the Law
Interrogations and False Confessions
Lie Detection
Human Factors in Forensic Sciences
Prosecution, Pretrial Processes, Plea Bargaining, and Bail
Jury Selection
Judicial Decision Making
Sentencing, Prisons, and Prisonization
Community Corrections and Problem-Solving Courts
Juvenile Justice
After learning about problem-solving courts, we take a field trip to the Lyon County Courthouse to observe drug court proceedings and attend a graduation ceremony.
After learning about psychology and public policy, we invite our local representative to discuss current events and the legislative process.
After learning about voir dire, students put their knowledge (and intuitions) to the test in a mock jury selection simulation. In three years, we have only ever chosen "pro-prosecution" juries! Interesting...