Psychology and the law

Psychology and the law

For your first writing assignment, complete a review and analysis of a recent scholarly source from the field of psychology, law, and/or criminal justice.

Examples of scholarly sources include research empirical studies, literature reviews, or theoretical article (i.e. book chapter, published legal ruling, or legal/amicus brief). If you choose a widely researched topic, choose a source that is no more than 4-5 years old. If your topic is not as broadly researched, an older source can be used. Your analysis should describe the theory, method (i.e. for a research article, identify the research question and describe how they tested it), and positions/results presented in the article. Also, you should provide some critical analysis.

You may choose to provide a theoretical or methodological critique (i.e. highlight strengths and weaknesses of the study design), suggest directions for further research, and/or consider how theories and points made throughout the article might influence future practice and/or policy

. Regardless of your selected topic, your critical analysis should include both legal and psychological components (e.g., if you choose a source that discusses a legal topic, you should analyze the legal issue but also include an analysis of relevant psychological concepts or implications). Base your analysis on your knowledge of psychological research, theory, and/or the law. While completing your analysis, include the citation of at least one additional scholarly source (e.g., a book, article, or legal ruling/opinion, or legal/amicus brief).

Your paper should be in APA format and 3-4 pages in length (double-spaced, 12-point font, 1’ margins). However, do not provide a separate title or reference page (see sample paper posted on Bb for format). Your paper should also include an original abstract (not the abstract from the paper you are reviewing). Grades will be determined based on organization, clarity, and proper citations as well as spelling, grammar, and punctuation. As per APA guidelines, do not include contractions or first-person references.