Legal, Forensic and Criminological Psychology

The Forensic Evaluation course is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the methodologies and practices used in psychological assessments within legal and judicial contexts, both in civil and criminal realms. Through a theoretical-practical approach, the course aims to develop critical skills in interpreting forensic data, drafting assessment reports, and providing accounts following national and international guidelines. The course objectives are as follows: Develop case reasoning skills: The course aims to equip students with conceptual tools and necessary skills to analyze and understand complex forensic cases. Students will learn to critically evaluate evidence and formulate hypotheses based on an objective assessment of facts. Deepen diagnostic aspects: The course intends to provide students with a thorough understanding of different diagnostic methodologies used in forensic expertise and evaluation. Students will gain skills in clinical assessment, learning to collect and analyze relevant information, evaluate the cognitive and psychological capacities of subjects involved in forensic cases, and formulate conclusions based on a comprehensive and reliable evaluation. Promote evidence-based practice: The course will emphasize the importance of forensic practice based on scientific evidence. Students will learn to use reliable and valid evidence sources, conduct relevant research, and base their conclusions on solid empirical data. They will be encouraged to maintain a critical and scientific approach in forensic decision-making. The ultimate goal of the Forensic Expertise and Evaluation Methodology lab course is to prepare students to conduct rigorous, accurate, and reliable forensic evaluations based on case reasoning, diagnostic aspects, and clinical assessment. Knowledge and understanding Upon completing the course, the student will be able to understand and critically use fundamental theories, techniques, and forensic consulting procedures in both civil and criminal contexts. They will also be able to place these skills within the contemporary scientific context. The student will acquire the ability to judiciously use scientific articles and guidelines of national and international relevance. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding At the end of the course, the student will have the skills to effectively use the theoretical and methodological knowledge learned to identify appropriate solutions to complex practical problems. This will include the ability to adopt recognized intervention techniques and procedures and methodology in both civil and criminal contexts, both scientifically and in work practice. Judgment autonomy Upon completion of the course, the student will have gained the ability to collect and analyze relevant information to develop scientific and practical evaluations and hypotheses related to the topics covered, operating independently. Communication skills Students will develop effective communication skills to present their assessments and conclusions clearly and comprehensibly. They will be encouraged to express their opinions objectively and professionally, using appropriate technical terminology and adapting their language to the different parties involved in the forensic process. Learning skills At the completion of the course, the student will have the ability to use the skills acquired independently and advancedly to successfully address complex themes that will be the subject of future research.