Description
Investigate a biopsychological perspective on the etiology of violence, antisocial behavior, and psychopathy, examining the interplay between psychological, social, and neurological factors.
In this course, you will:
💡 Explain neuroscience techniques and neurological factors that predispose one to crime and violence.
💡 Discuss how psychological factors interact with biological and social factors to impact criminality.
💡 Critically evaluate biological theories of antisocial behavior.
💡 Discuss the ethical, forensic, and legal implications for findings in forensic neuroscience.
Course text:
Raine, A. (2013). The anatomy of violence: the biological roots of crime. Vintage.
Recommended Further Reading:
Glenn, A. L., & Raine, A. (2014). Psychopathy. New York University Press.
Thomson, N. D. (2019). Understanding psychopathy: the biopsychosocial perspective. Routledge.
Course Assignments:
Class Attendance - 10%
Group Presentation - 20%
Exams - 20%
Essays - 50%
Schedule:
Topics that we will cover:
1. Evolution & Crime
2. Genetics
3. Neurochemistry: Hormones & Neurotransmitters
4. Neurology & Neurocognition
5. Structural Brain Imaging
6. Functional Brain Imaging
7. Psychophysiology
8. Early Health Influences
9. Psychopathology (Mental Illness) & Crime
10. Psychopathy
11. Biosocial Perspectives
12. Homicide: Serial Killers & Mass Murderers
13. Female Crime & Sex Offenders
14. Treatment
15. Neuroehtics