Methodology and Theory

PSY 545 Milestone Two Guidelines and Rubric

Overview: In Milestone Two, you will be writing the Methodology and Theory section for your case analysis. In this paper, you will evaluate and apply the scientific methodology and theoretical framework for the case scenario you have chosen. You will walk through the case scenario, applying methodology and determining which specific scientific methodology applies to the scenario. You will also discuss what previous investigations or existing cases could be applied to the scenario.

Along with looking at the methodology, you will look at theoretical framework. You will look at how previous research helps in developing evidence-based approaches and provides effective services to clients in this scenario. You will select a psychological theory that would help inform the eventual decisions and recommendations for your chosen scenario. Provide a rationale that supports your chosen theoretical framework. Based on your chosen scientific method, discuss what best practices or approaches you would recommend to ensure they are effectively implemented in your scenario.

Specifically, the following critical elements must be addressed:

II. Scientific Methodology Evaluate the case scenario, applying the scientific methodology from the course. Remember, you are not stating opinions; you are breaking down this case through the lens of the scientific method. Walk through the scenario, applying specific scientific methodology. In other words, determine which specific scientific methodology (e.g., forensic interviewing, psychological assessments, psycho-social assessments, the administering of psychological testing, court report writing) applies to the scenario.

III. Theoretical Framework a) How can previous research help your assigned forensic psychologist with developing evidence-based approaches and providing effective services

to clients within the scenario? b) Select a psychological theory that would help inform the forensic psychologist’s eventual decisions and recommendations in this case. In other

words, provide a rationale that supports the approach as it relates to the specific scenario. c) Based on the scientific methodology(s) that you identified in Section II, what best practices or approaches would you recommend to ensure that

they are effectively implemented in the particular scenario? i. For instance, what recommendations would you make to the assigned forensic psychologist to ensure that the clients in the case

maintain the limit of confidentiality? Or how would you determine the clients’ level of cognition with regard to a forensic psychologist’s involvement with them? Note: These are guiding questions. You should address other best practices as they relate to your scenario.

Rubric Guidelines for Submission: Milestone Two should follow these formatting guidelines: Use of minimum of two sources, three to four pages with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, one-inch margins, and citations in APA style.

Critical Elements Proficient (100%) Needs Improvement (75%) Not Evident (0%) Value

Scientific Methodology: Specific to the Scenario

Evaluates the case scenario by applying appropriate scientific methodology(s) specific to the case

Evaluates the case scenario by applying scientific methodology(s) specific to the case, but application is not appropriate or lacks detail

Does not evaluate the case scenario by applying scientific methodology(s)

20

Theoretical Framework: Evidence-Based

Approaches

Applies previous research to inform the development of evidence-based approaches in providing effective services to the clients in the scenario

Applies previous research to inform the development of evidence-based approaches, but research does not speak to providing effective services to the clients in the scenario, or discussion overlooks relevant factors

Does not apply previous research to inform the implementation of evidence-based approaches

20

Theoretical Framework: Psychological Theory

Selects an appropriate psychological theory and provides a rationale to support the approach as it relates to the scenario

Selects a psychological theory and provides a rationale to support the approach as it relates to the scenario, but discussion overlooks relevant factors or lacks detail

Does not select a psychological theory

20

Theoretical Framework: Scenario

Outlines recommended best practices or approaches to ensure that the suggested scientific methodology(s) are effectively implemented in the scenario

Outlines recommended best practices or approaches to ensure that the suggested scientific methodology(s) are effectively implemented in the particular scenario, but outline lacks detail or overlooks relevant factors

Does not outline recommended best practices or approaches

20

Articulation of Response Submission has no major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization

Submission has major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that negatively impact readability and articulation of main ideas

Submission has critical errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that prevent understanding of ideas

20

Earned Total 100%