Forensic Psychology, Children and Families

Aims:

The unit of study is designed to introduce students to a range of disorders seen in infancy, childhood and adolescence and the key principles relevant to conducting psychological assessments and treatments with children/adolescents and their families. Special attention is given to the assessment and intervention methods for young offenders. Students will be introduced to the Children’s Court and Family Court of Australia. Students will become familiar with areas such as the determination of guardianship, custody and access, psychological consequences of divorce, family violence, custody evaluations and access determination, and should have an understanding of the role and skills of mediation in family disputes. With respect to Children’s Court matters, they will become familiar with protective issues and criminal matters.

 

Unit Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a substantial body of knowledge of theoretical models of forensic psychology as applied to children and families
2. Comprehend and synthesise expert theoretical knowledge concerning the role of the psychologist in forensic settings where children and families are present.
3. Critically evaluate and apply methods of assessing and treating children and families in forensic contexts.
4. Explain and critique theoretical positions to other professionals and services within the forensic context.