Forensic Psychology Quiz and Flashcards: Introduction to Criminal Psychology

Study Notes

Forensic Psychology: Introduction and Scope

Forensic Psychology is a distinct field that combines psychology and law.
It involves the application of psychological principles to legal issues.
The field has its roots in the late 19th century, with significant contributions from pioneers like Hugo Münsterberg.

Psychology vs. Law: Fundamental Distinctions

Psychology focuses on human behavior, mental processes, and emotions.
Law, on the other hand, deals with rules, regulations, and societal norms.
Understanding the differences between psychological and legal perspectives is crucial in forensic practice.

Police Psychology and Forensic Psychology in India

Police Psychology involves the application of psychological principles to police work, including training, selection, and stress management.
Forensic Psychology in India is still an emerging field, with growing importance in legal proceedings and investigations.
Sub-fields of forensic psychology in India include criminal profiling, crime scene analysis, and psychological assessments.

Ethical and Legal Issues in Forensic Practice

Forensic psychologists must adhere to ethical guidelines, maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality.
Legal issues, such as expert testimony and evidence admissibility, are critical considerations in forensic practice.
Psychologists acting as expert witnesses must be aware of their role and responsibilities.

Crime and Victimization

Crime can have severe psychological impacts on victims, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Victimization can be affected by factors such as the bystander effect, where witnesses fail to intervene in emergency situations.
Forensic mental health services play a crucial role in supporting victims and offenders.

Psychological Explanations of Crime Types

Arson: often associated with pyromania, a psychological disorder characterized by an intense desire to set fires.
Terrorism: involves ideological and psychological motivations, including a desire for power and control.
Homicides: can be motivated by psychological factors such as jealousy, revenge, or mental health issues.
Sexual Offences: often linked to psychological disorders, such as pedophilia, and can be influenced by societal and cultural factors.
Burglary, Robbery, Theft, and White-Collar Crimes: may be motivated by psychological factors, such as thrill-seeking, financial gain, or revenge.

Description

Test your knowledge on the basics of forensic psychology, including its history, scope, and sub-fields. This quiz covers the distinctions between psychology and law, police psychology, ethical issues, and more. Explore the psychological explanations of specific crime types and victimization.