Revised 8/2023

PSY 255 - Psychology Aspects of Criminal Behavior (3 CR.)

Course Description

Studies psychology of criminal behavior. Includes topics such as violent and nonviolent crime, sexual offenses, insanity, addiction, white collar crime, and other deviant behaviors. Provides background for law enforcement occupations. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

To provide the student with an introduction to important psychological concepts and principles of the etiology of criminal behavior.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: PSY 125, PSY 200 or division approval.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

  • Identify the theoretical perspectives within criminal psychology and articulate their similarities and differences
  • Identify the significant Risk and Protective factors correlated with the development of criminal behavior
  • Articulate the major theoretical perspectives on aggression
  • Differentiate between psychopathy, criminal psychopathy and juvenile psychopathy and the ethical considerations of each designation
  • Identify the major mental disorders associated with criminal behavior and the principles of dangerousness and risk assessment
  • Explain the developmental theories on juvenile delinquency and treatment approaches and programs
  • Explain the difference between assault, criminal homicide, juvenile murder and family violence and domestic abuse
  • Describe the characteristics and classifications of offending patterns for rape offenders and pedophiles.
  • Identify characteristics and classification patterns of school and workplace violent offenders
  • Explain the correlation between substance abuse and alcohol on the onset of criminal behavior

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Introduction to Criminal Behavior 
    • Perspectives in Criminology
    • Defining and measuring crime
  • Origins of Criminal Behavior 
    • Developmental Risk Factors
    • Biological Risk Factors
    • Learning and Situational Factors
  • Human Aggression and Violence
  • Juvenile Delinquency
  • Crime and Mental Disorders
  • Homicide and Family Violence
  • Terrorism
  • Sexual Assault
  • Substance Abuse and Crime

Optional Topics

  • Multiple and Mass Murder
  • Cybercrime
  • Property Crime
  • Correctional Psychology
  • White Collar Crime
  • Prostitution
  • Pornography
  • Sex Trafficking