Criminal Behavior

COU FS611 - Criminal Behavior

Credits: 3

This course will provide an introduction to several of the most prominent psychological theories of criminal and aggressive behavior. Historical conceptions of criminal behavior will be explored and lead to contemporary theoretical conceptualizations that cover behavioral, social learning, cognitive, psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, developmental, biological and sociocultural perspectives. Topics include mental disorders associated with offending, substance abuse and crime, sexual crimes, juvenile delinquency, women and crime, victim/perpetrator rights, legal issues and policy concerns, as well as crime prevention and evidence-based treatments. Particular ethical dilemmas in considering these theories will be explored.