Criminological and Forensic Psychology

The second edition of Criminological and Forensic Psychology is an even more theoretically rigorous, practically relevant, engaging and fun introduction to this broad and fascinating field. It covers both the conceptual basis within which psychology knowledge is applied in forensic contexts and the practical applications of psychology to the criminal civil justice systems.

Key Features:

• Case studies feature in every chapter and place students in the full context of a criminal case, showing them how psychological theories can be used to explain real-life crimes.

• In-depth exploration of the fascinating courtroom process including separate chapters on the Defendant's Mind and The Jury.

• A dedicated chapter on research methods specific to forensic psychology to help students do their research project around this topic, covering the final year and post-graduate research.

• A new chapter on Intimate relationship aggression: Domestic Violence and Domestic Homicide

• Online resources including chapter-by-chapter multiple choice questions, additional case studies and links to further readings

“The first edition of this book was superb. This second edition is even better. The content is comprehensive, well organised, easy to read, and supported with reference to an excellent range of interesting case studies.”

A fantastic resource, not only for those studying towards a formal qualification in criminological and / or forensic psychology but also written in a straightforward way that′s accessible for anyone with an interest in the subject area. The book has a good range of engaging content with a glossary to aid the reader in developing an understanding of the more technical terminology. The key themes throughout the book allow the reader to make connections and see the ′bigger picture′.

 

The author threads relevant and engaging research studies throughout the book in a way which demonstrates the importance of research as a foundation for psychological knowledge, but without intimidating those who may be reading for interest only.

 

From a teaching and learning perspective the book uses valid and reliable sources and encourages the reader to do like-wise. The clear visual overviews allow the reader to clearly focus on the key points while also allowing them to easily compare and contrast the content under discussion. The review of each section allows the reader to consolidate their learning with the opportunity for further reading allowing them to develop a deeper level of knowledge and understanding.

 

I′ll definitely be recommending it to my psychology students.

-- Claudi Moi

Gavin presents the fundamentals of criminal and forensic psychology in a manner that is both comprehensive and approachable for students. Particularly, an in-depth consideration of research methods really sets this book apart from other key texts in the area, making it a staple for any reading list.

-- Dr Zara Brodie

The first edition of this book was superb. This second edition is even better.  The content is comprehensive, well organised, easy to read, and supported with reference to an excellent range of interesting case studies. 

 

-- Stephen Walsh

An essential text for all criminology and forensic psychology students at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. It is an extremely useful resource as it demonstrates throughout the application of psychological theory to forensic practice and contexts.

 

-- Dr Clare Allely,

An exceptional book which takes the reader through the complete forensic process from investigating, profiling, witnessing, right to imprisonment. The book would be a favourite amongst academia as it is thoroughly evidence-based and well researched. Students would find the immensely practical structure of the book useful with the key elements, case studies and summaries to help them engage with the core content of each chapter. Highly readable and recommended to all practitioners working in forensic contexts.

 

-- Dr Zendre Swanepoel

Helen Gavin was, before retiring in 2023, Subject Lead in Criminal Psychology at the University of Huddersfield, having previously been Head of Psychology at two universities. She taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses in this area, and now carries out research that focuses on deviant and homicidal sexual expression. She is currently collaborating with researchers and practitioners across the UK and in the USA, concerned with projects in female aggression, non-apprehended offenders, and issues concerning policing. She has supervised a number of research students, some of whom have investigated female aggression and psychopathy, the effect of childhood abuse, witchcraft and child homicide, sexual assault in hidden populations, traumatic incidents experienced by police officers, characteristics of homicide, sexual deviancy and disgust responses, and incarcerated sex offenders.Previous books include Women and the Abuse of Power (Emerald), Understanding Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology (Sage), The Essence of Cognitive Psychology (Prentice-Hall), and Sex Drugs and Rock & Roll: Psychological, Legal, and Cultural Examinations of Sex and Sexuality (ID-Net Press). She has also contributed chapters to over a dozen edited books, and published widely in forensic and medical journals. Helen feels that studying criminal psychology can make one lose a sense of perspective, so she also studies cultural issues such as music and fairy tales, both of which, she has discovered, have a dark side.

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