Key Topics in Forensic Psychology
Published on 10. November 2025
232 pages
978-1-040-44246-3 (ISBN)
Description
Key Topics in Forensic Psychology provides readers with a succinct yet broad overview of Forensic and Investigative Psychology, considering the history, theories, methods used and key topics where it has been of impact. It also considers where the discipline is headed in terms of directions for future research and practice.
Written by academics who have also applied their research in practice, this accessible book outlines the development of Forensic Psychology, from psychological advice given to courts, to assessment and treatment of offenders. It also details the development of Investigative Psychology and how this can assist police investigations. Theoretical explanations of crime are provided with the aid of clear case examples. The book covers a broad variety of applied topics including decision making, eyewitness testimony, suspect interviewing, behavioural investigative advice and the nuances involved in assessment and treatment of offenders. Considering seminal research alongside more recent empirical evidence, the book also considers the various research methods used - from utilisation of vast databases to interviews gleaning in-depth, first-hand knowledge from those involved. Importantly the authors explain how this topic overlaps with other fields such as criminology and law and discuss examples of its wider impact on policy and practice. Finally, the authors consider key emerging areas, such as new crime threats, and suggest new directions for research.
Key Topics in Forensic Psychology is the ideal resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students in this field of psychology, as well as the related areas of criminology and law.
Written by academics who have also applied their research in practice, this accessible book outlines the development of Forensic Psychology, from psychological advice given to courts, to assessment and treatment of offenders. It also details the development of Investigative Psychology and how this can assist police investigations. Theoretical explanations of crime are provided with the aid of clear case examples. The book covers a broad variety of applied topics including decision making, eyewitness testimony, suspect interviewing, behavioural investigative advice and the nuances involved in assessment and treatment of offenders. Considering seminal research alongside more recent empirical evidence, the book also considers the various research methods used - from utilisation of vast databases to interviews gleaning in-depth, first-hand knowledge from those involved. Importantly the authors explain how this topic overlaps with other fields such as criminology and law and discuss examples of its wider impact on policy and practice. Finally, the authors consider key emerging areas, such as new crime threats, and suggest new directions for research.
Key Topics in Forensic Psychology is the ideal resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students in this field of psychology, as well as the related areas of criminology and law.
Reviews / Votes
"This textbook incorporates real case examples and guidelines for future practice and research, creating a foundation for discussion and potential empirical studies for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Additionally, its emphasis on employability is vital and frequently overlooked in academic literature."Louise Almond, Professor in Investigative and Forensic Psychology, University of Liverpool.
"Welcome to what I consider a beginners guide to the fascinating world of forensic psychology and criminology. This book weaves you through the history of this to now. Along the way you will explore key theories under a forensic psychological lens. From undergraduates to interested onlookers, I highly recommend this book to you, which, once finished, will leave you with a bigger appetite to learn more, and increased confidence in this exciting arena. Enjoy!"
Martyn Underhill, MBE, Ex Policing Crime Commissioner, Dorset (2012-2021); Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Bournemouth University; Parole Board Member England and Wales.
"In a crowded market, this is a Forensic text I recommend most highly. It provides an excellent addition to the field, offering a comprehensive yet accessible exploration of the latest developments in Forensic Psychology. The book is rich with case studies, practical insights, and contemporary research developments making it an invaluable resource for both academics and practitioners. Students will also find this a highly useful resource, helping them to consolidate their learning on the topic."
Dr Dominic Willmott, CPsychol, AFBPsS, Reader (Associate Prof) in Legal and Criminological Psychology, Loughborough University.
"Comprehensive, current and critical. A brilliant resource for anyone interested in forensic psychology."
Professor Maria Ioannou, BSc, MSc, PhD, C.Psychol, CSci, AFBPsS, FHEA, CMgr MCMI, Professor of Investigative & Forensic Psychology, University of Huddersfield.
More details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Target group
College/higher education
Illustrations
14 Tables, black and white; 6 Line drawings, black and white; 2 Halftones, black and white; 8 Illustrations, black and white
File size
1,38 MB
ISBN-13
978-1-040-44246-3 (9781040442463)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Terri Cole | Dara Mojtahedi
Key Topics in Forensic Psychology
Book
11/2025
1st Edition
Routledge
€35.20
Shipment within 10-20 days
Terri Cole | Dara Mojtahedi
Key Topics in Forensic Psychology
Book
11/2025
1st Edition
Routledge
€201.30
Shipment within 10-20 days
Persons
Dr Terri Cole is a Principal Academic in Forensic Psychology at Bournemouth University where she set up the masters course in Investigative Forensic Psychology.
Dr Dara Mojtahedi is a Reader (Associate Professor) in Forensic and Investigative Psychology at the University of Huddersfield.
Dr Dara Mojtahedi is a Reader (Associate Professor) in Forensic and Investigative Psychology at the University of Huddersfield.
Content
Key Foundations:
1. What is Forensic Psychology?
2. Early Beginnings and Development of Forensic Psychology
Key Theories:
3. Cognitive Theories of Crime
4. Developmental Theories of Crime
5. Social and Situational Theories of Crime
6. Neurological Theories of Crime
7. Clinical Psychological Theories of Crime
Key Methodologies:
8. Number Crunching (Quantitative Research Methods)
9. The Devil is in the Detail (Qualitative Research Methods)
Key Impacts:
10. Eyewitness Evidence
11. Behavioural Analysis of Crime
12. Interviewing Suspects
13. Decision Making
14. Assessment of Offenders
15. Treatment of Offenders
Key Emerging Areas:
16. Where do we go from here - Future Research
17. Where do we go from here - Future Practice
1. What is Forensic Psychology?
2. Early Beginnings and Development of Forensic Psychology
Key Theories:
3. Cognitive Theories of Crime
4. Developmental Theories of Crime
5. Social and Situational Theories of Crime
6. Neurological Theories of Crime
7. Clinical Psychological Theories of Crime
Key Methodologies:
8. Number Crunching (Quantitative Research Methods)
9. The Devil is in the Detail (Qualitative Research Methods)
Key Impacts:
10. Eyewitness Evidence
11. Behavioural Analysis of Crime
12. Interviewing Suspects
13. Decision Making
14. Assessment of Offenders
15. Treatment of Offenders
Key Emerging Areas:
16. Where do we go from here - Future Research
17. Where do we go from here - Future Practice
