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Forensic Psychology: Insanity
If your student is interested in learning about the legal system or forensics, this course is designed for them! We look specifically at how insanity functions within the courts and what it means to be legally insane in the United States.
Class experience
US Grade 11 - 12
What is the insanity plea? Not guilty by reason of insanity is a very specific plea that covers the intersection of the mental health system and the criminal justice system. In this lecture based class, students will be introduced to the world of forensic psychology in relation to insanity. By looking at some important insanity cases (M'Naghten and John Hinkley Jr) as well as some of the most common misconceptions about the insanity plea (how often do you think it comes up in court?), we will...
I have a bachelor's in psychology with my focus being on forensic psychology and am preparing to do my Master's specifically in forensic psychology. I have extensively studied the insanity plea in the U.S., doing my thesis on public opinions about not guilty by reason of insanity pleas in the U.S.
Course mentions violent crime, mental illness, and secure psychiatric facilities which may be disturbing to some students. It is not suitable for students under 17 as we will be talking about psychotic disorders (hallucinations and delusions). Violent crime will be mentioned; however, the class primarily focuses on the legal wording and implications of the plea. Discussions of dangerousness and mandatory treatment for those who are insane will also be present. Please reach out if you have questions about content. I am more than happy to provide more details.
"Courtroom" by srqpix is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/?ref=openverse. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Melton, G. B., Petrila, J., Poythress, N. G., Slobogin, C., Otto, R. K., Mossman, D., & Condie, L. O. (2018). Psychological evaluations for the courts: A handbook for mental health professionals and lawyers (4th ed.). Guilford Press.
I am a recent college graduate with my BA in Comparative Literature and Psychology. I have a passion for helping others succeed in all walks of life! In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music and playing rugby! I teach courses that...
Group Class
$21
per classMeets once
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 17-18
6-12 learners per class
