Crime, Technology, and Teens: Exploring Forensic Psychology Today

Description du cours

Ever wondered why people commit crimes, or how technology is changing the way we interact and make choices? This course dives into these questions by exploring modern issues in forensic psychology — the study of why people break the law and how society responds. You’ll learn why people do what they do, how youth navigate online spaces, and what happens when technology and the law collide.

In this course, we’ll look at real-life examples and research to understand these challenges, including:
1. Online relationships and risks — How technology changes the way young people connect, and the dangers of sharing private images (like the non-consensual sharing of nudes).
2. Online hate and extremist content — Why young people get pulled into harmful or extremist online communities (like the incel subculture) and what can be done about it.
3. Youth in the justice system — What it’s like to be a young witness or suspect in a criminal case.
4. Fighting misinformation — How fake news and pseudoscience spread online, and ways to recognize and stop it.

You’ll also learn the key theories that explain criminal behaviour, from social learning theory to routine activities theory, all made easy to understand with real-life examples. Cutting-edge research will show you how to navigate online spaces more competently, with plenty of discussion and hands-on activities.

Why take this course?
• Gain critical thinking, research, and communication skills that make you more competitive for undergraduate programs.
• Build skills in analyzing information and spotting misinformation, which will help you succeed in university courses across subjects.
• Hands-on projects let you apply knowledge creatively, making learning memorable and fun.

At the end of the course, you’ll team up to create a fun, creative project — think TikTok, Instagram post, or YouTube video — that shares something you learned with your classmates. The class votes for the most impactful project, and winners receive a prize. Exceptional projects might even be shared with the Sexually Harmful Behaviours lab for real-world outreach!

By the end of this course, you’ll understand contemporary issues in forensic psychology, sharpen critical thinking skills, and gain practical abilities that give you an edge in university and beyond.

Please note that this course will cover mature themes, including violence, harmful sexual behaviours, and political extremism. This content will be covered in an age-appropriate manner.