Criminal Psychology: Topics in Applied Psychology

Book excerpt: Topics in Applied Psychology offers a range of accessible, integrated texts ideal for courses in applied psychology. The books are written by leading figures in their field and provide a comprehensive academic and professional insight into each topic. They incorporate a range of features to bring psychology to life including case histories, research methods, ethical debate and learner activities. Each chapter opens with learning objectives to consolidate key points. A reading list and sample essay questions at the end of chapters enable further independent study. The series also offers an appreciation of multiple perspectives, examines the relationship between psychology and other cognate disciplines and discusses recent developments in each field. Topics in Applied Psychology will provide you with the tools you need to engage with, enjoy and understand your applied psychology discipline, ultimately ensuring confidence and success in exams as well as a comprehensive grounding in the profession. Criminal Psychology examines the contributions that psychology is making to our understanding of criminals, the investigation of their crimes, processes in court and the management and treatment of offenders in prison. The psychological contributions to investigations are assessed with regard to interviewing and detecting deception as well as examining the nature and meaning of offender profiling. The role of psychologists as experts in court is reviewed followed by a look at how psychologists work with prisoners. The psychology of the victim is also examined. The book concludes with a discussion of the future of crime and the growing contribution that psychology is making to understanding criminals and reducing their activities. The integrated and interactive approach, combined with the comprehensive coverage, makes this book the ideal companion for courses in applied criminal psychology. Other books in this series include: Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Organizational and Work Psychology and Sport and Exercise Psychology.