Psychology Discussion/Assignment

WEEK 1: AT A GLANCE EVALUATING THE DEFENDANT

INTRODUCTION Under international law, every defendant has the right to a fair trial.

However, what if a defendant does not understand the trial process? What if the defendant cannot comprehend enough about him or herself or the legal system to help his or her attorney form a defense? What if the defendant has no idea what he or she is being charged with in the first place? The answers to these questions directly influence the fairness of a trial and fortunately the answers to these questions can be determined by a forensic psychologist.

This week, you examine how forensic psychologists assess defendants’ competency to stand trial. You also assess a virtual defendant’s competency to stand trial and analyze challenges to the competency evaluation process. In addition, you review the requirements for the final Project Comprehensive Report.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES Students will:

Evaluate a virtual defendant for competency to stand trial Analyze challenges to the competency evaluation process Analyze Project Comprehensive Report for completion requirements

DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT RESOURCES