FOR10001: Introduction to Forensic Psychology

Assignment 2: Essay

Assignment Details

The purpose of this essay is to allow you to examine a specific aspect of forensic psychology and to gain additional insight into how psychology and scientific verification might be applied to the legal arena. Specifically, this assignment examines the challenges the legal system faces in using evidence from psychological research to underpin justice processes effectively.

Choose one essay question from the following:

1. To what extent could you accurately and reliably detect deception during an interview with an alleged offender? Discuss relevant factors/theories and make recommendations for best practices when conducting an interview.

2. Are eyewitness identifications reliable? Identify factors related to the reliability of eyewitness identification and discuss how they may impact eyewitness testimony.

3. Why would a person confess to a crime they did not commit during a police interview? Drawing on relevant theory, discuss conditions under which a person might offer a false confession.

In your essay:

• Introduce your topic using a true crime case study that demonstrates key elements of your argument.
• Indicate the role psychology plays in answering your chosen question (this should be based on relevant literature).
• Select and describe two appropriate factors/theories relevant to your question. Examine the literature related to those factors/theories and critically discuss how they might impact on the detection of deception, eyewitness testimony, or false confessions.
• Identify legal implications from the perspective of a forensic psychologist (e.g., if you were to assist the Court, what major issues might you want to clarify to the jury?). Link these implications to the case study you used to introduce your topic and the factors/theory you have discussed in your response.
• On the basis of your examination of these two factors/theories, draw a conclusion that cohesively answers your selected question and argues the role psychology can play in addressing it.

overview

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Assessment Summary

Purpose: Examine a specific aspect of forensic psychology and explore how psychological evidence can inform legal processes.
Key Requirements:

• Select one essay question from:

  1. Detection of deception during offender interviews.
  2. Reliability of eyewitness identifications.
  3. Reasons for false confessions during police interviews.
• Introduce the topic using a relevant true crime case study.
• Explain the role of psychology in addressing the selected question.
• Identify and critically discuss two factors or theories relevant to the topic.
• Highlight legal implications from a forensic psychologist’s perspective.
• Draw a conclusion linking the theories/factors to practical recommendations.
• Ensure coherence, critical analysis, and evidence-based discussion.

Step-by-Step Approach Guided by the Academic Mentor

Step 1: Topic Selection & Case Study Identification

• The mentor helped the student choose the essay question “Are eyewitness identifications reliable?” based on the student’s interest and existing research familiarity.

• A true crime case demonstrating eyewitness errors was selected to provide context and support arguments.

Step 2: Research & Literature Review

• The student was guided to explore scholarly articles, journals, and forensic psychology texts.

• The mentor suggested identifying two key factors affecting eyewitness reliability, e.g., stress and weapon focus, and reviewing theories related to memory distortion and perception under stress.

Step 3: Structuring the Essay

• Introduction: Presented the case study and framed the essay question.
• Literature Integration: Each factor/theory was explained, supported with empirical evidence, and critically evaluated.
• Legal Implications: Mentor guided the student to consider implications for court procedures, jury understanding, and expert testimony.

Step 4: Analysis & Critical Discussion

• The student was encouraged to critically analyze how stress and weapon focus could impact memory accuracy.

• Mentor highlighted linking theory with practical observations and case study events.

Step 5: Drawing Conclusions

• Mentor advised summarizing findings, explicitly linking psychological theory to the reliability of eyewitness testimony.

• Recommendations for best practices in courtroom procedures were included, demonstrating applied forensic psychology knowledge.

Step 6: Final Review & Submission

• The mentor reviewed the draft for clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards.

• Student was guided to refine citations, integrate Turnitin-compliant sources, and ensure critical discussion rather than mere description.

Outcome & Learning Objectives Achieved

Outcome:

• A well-structured, evidence-based essay analyzing eyewitness reliability.
• Clear integration of theory, case study, and legal implications.
• Cohesive conclusion providing recommendations for forensic application.

Learning Objectives Covered:

1. Develop critical thinking in applying psychological research to legal contexts.
2. Analyze and discuss factors affecting eyewitness testimony.
3. Evaluate empirical evidence and its practical relevance.
4. Understand the legal responsibilities of forensic psychologists in advising courts.
5. Improve academic research, writing, and referencing skills.

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