The final assignment for this course is a Case Study Analysis and Findings. The purpose of the Case Study Analysis and Findings is for you to utilize the knowledge and skills developed in this course to evaluate the psychological methods and theoretical models of criminal behavior as well as the police psychology and the psychological aspects of all participants in the criminal justice process relative to a specific criminal episode. An overview of forensic psychology as it relates to the criminal justice process should be included.
This course has addressed issues of psychological theory and practice relative to the functioning of the criminal justice system. These impacts range from the offender, to law enforcement and investigations, to practices and legalities of law in the courtroom, to the participation and impact of victims and witnesses, and to treatment and sentencing rendered in the correctional environment. Research continues regarding the biological, genetic, psychological, and social impacts on mental health and resulting behavior. These findings will continue to find their way into the legal implications of the psychological influences on behavior.
Utilizing your research and analyses, consider the psychological methods and theoretical models of criminal behavior as well as the police psychology and the psychological aspects of all participants in the criminal justice process relative to the specific criminal episode selected in Week One (I selected Richard Ramirez (1960-2013) murdered 25 victims over a 13-year period in California). Present your findings within the continuing context of the endogenous and exogenous theories of criminal behavior and the analysis of how our biases and assumptions influence our assessments of individuals. Correlate these to the cultural-based behavior patterns that may be specific to certain segments of the population with an evaluation of the potential impact and intervention strategies that may be utilized to reduce the impact of stress on law enforcement personnel.
In your Final Research Paper
• Evaluate the theory of criminal behavior related to the selected case (Richard Ramirez).
• Analyze the biases and assumptions that influenced participants in the case process.
• Address each of these participants:
o Investigators
o Prosecutors
o Defense attorney(s)
o Jurors
o Judge
• Analyze the role the psychological profile of the offender played in how the investigation was conducted and in any subsequent court proceedings.
• Discuss the impact of this case on future actions and ideology of the criminal justice system relative to the psychological issues presented (or denied) in this case.