This course provides a deeper theoretical and research review of forensic referrals related to interpersonal trauma including childhood abuse and neglect, child and gender-specific sexual abuse, as well as violence risk factors including coercive control and intimate partner violence.  Court-involved evaluation and treatment will be reviewed with heavy emphasis on distinct role clarification and scope of forensic opinions for these populations.  In addition, students will learn the missions and functions of legal and social service systems with whom forensic psychologists often interface.  The objectives of this course are to: (1) apply psychological theory and research to emotional injury in legal contexts; (2) become oriented to assessment methodology and instruments employed when conducting trauma-related and family-risk evaluations; (3) learn the fundamental differences between evaluative and intervention roles in civil contexts; (4) increase awareness of and communication skills related to working within multidisciplinary teams; (5) apply relevant ethical decision-making and (6) continued formation of forensic writing and testimonial skills.

Prerequisite courses: PSY-730