Legal, Forensic and Criminological Psychology

After the presentation of the learning objectives and course organization, in the first part (about 4 hours), through the presentation of a clinical case, the integrated approach to explain the different etiological factors underlying mental disorders is presented: a) biological factors (genetic, neurobiological, physiological, etc.); b) psychological factors (behavioral, cognitive, affective); c) cultural, social and interpersonal factors; d) evolutionary factors. Subsequently (2 hours), in the light of scientific literature, the main vulnerability, precipitating and maintenance factors of mental disorders are presented and critically discussed. The emotional processes and emotional regulation relevant to the understanding of psychopathology, the main cognitive-behavioral models, and scientific theories on psychological well-being are then explored (2 hours). The second part of the course (8 hours) is dedicated to acquiring knowledge and skills for psychological diagnosis: a) functions, procedures, and tools in the field of psychopathological diagnosis; b) main psychodiagnostic tools (e.g., structured interviews, questionnaires); c) assessment of the suicide risk; d) the mental status exam; e) psychodiagnostic report. The third part (8 hours) is dedicated to the design, implementation, and evaluation of psychological interventions in the field of mental health based on evidence-based practice. Therefore, the following are presented: a) relational factors in psychological assessment and intervention; b) intervention strategies; c) intervention techniques for strengthening transversal skills (e.g., emotional awareness, stress management, social skills); c) intervention techniques for psychological support with particular reference to emotional first aid; d) the prevention and promotion of psychological well-being; e) ethical principles in clinical psychology.

The course requires basic knowledge of psychometrics, methodology of research, clinical and general psychology.

M. DURAND, D. H. BARLOW & S. G. HOFFMAN. Psicologia Clinica, UTET

Attendance is mandatory. The course is intended to be completed when the student has attended at least 70% of the lesson hours.

The exam aims to verify the degree of knowledge acquisition on the topics covered during the course. There are no intermediate tests during the course. The number and dates of the exam session are defined each year by the Degree Course Council. Therefore, please consult the dedicated pages. It consists of a written exam that includes multiple-choice and open questions. An oral exam is scheduled immediately after. The vote is mainly based on the following parameters: a) the number of correct answers in the written test; b) the ability to understand and critically analyze the topics addressed during the oral exam.

The lessons are carried out with the support of power-points during which the various topics covered are presented and in which specific moments of debate and critical analysis are foreseen. Furthermore, during the course, inter-ventions by mental health professionals and presentations by students on specific topics (e.g. anxiety disorders) may be foreseen.