BHS2340 - The Criminal Mind

Leader: Francesca Collins

Offered

Berwick Second semester 2007 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to biological, psychological and social models of criminal behaviour and explores the application of these approaches to understanding the diversity of criminal behaviours. The critical evaluation and application of these theories to various categories of crime and behaviour will provide students with the opportunity to explore and analyse individual and social influences on criminal behaviours.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. a broad understanding of the biological, psychological and social models of criminal behaviour.
2. the ability to discriminate between evidence, interpretation, opinion and fact in evaluating these theories and concepts;
3. an ability to communicate, orally and in a written form, their understanding of these theories and concepts.

Assessment

Research essay (2500 words) : 55%
Two 1-hour tests (2000 words) : 45%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

BHS1711 and BHS1712, or permission

Prohibitions

BHS3340