criminal psychology

What is Criminal Psychology?

The application of psychological principles and research methods to the study of crime, criminals, and the legal system.

What is the primary role of a Forensic Psychologist?

To apply psychological expertise within the legal and justice systems, often involving assessment, treatment, and consultation related to offenders, victims, and legal professionals.

What is Criminal Profiling?

A behavioral and investigative tool that helps law enforcement identify likely suspects and provides insights into their behavior, motivations, and characteristics based on analysis of crime scene evidence.

Explain the concept of Mens Rea.

A legal term that refers to the 'guilty mind' or mental state required for a person to be held accountable for a crime. It implies intent, knowledge, or recklessness.

What is the Nature vs. Nurture debate in criminal psychology?

It examines the extent to which criminal behavior is influenced by genetic, biological, and innate factors (nature) versus environmental, social, and experiential factors (nurture).

What is Recidivism?

The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend or relapse into criminal behavior after release from prison or completion of a sentence.

What is meant by a defendant's Competency to Stand Trial?

A defendant's current mental state that allows them to understand the charges against them and to assist their attorney in their defense. This is distinct from their mental state at the time of the offense.

What is Victimology?

The study of victimization, including the psychological effects on victims, the relationship between victims and offenders, and the role of victims in the criminal justice process.

Describe Social Learning Theory in the context of criminal behavior.

Proposes that individuals learn criminal behavior through observation and imitation of others