Criminal profiling, or crime scene analysis, is an important aspect of investigative psychology. While criminal profiling is a tool that has certainly assisted in solving many crimes over the years, it is only as good as the validity and reliability of the research behind it. Research that is valid means that the results represent a true difference and are not based on chance alone. Reliability means that the results will be consistent over time. Thus, in Investigative Psychology you must be aware of the strengths and limitations of criminal profiling, and know when and how this tool can be used effectively.
To prepare for this assignment:
- Review Chapter 3 in Introduction to Forensic Psychology. Pay attention to the importance of the validity of the research on which the profiling is based, the strengths and benefits of criminal profiling as a tool of investigative psychology, and the liabilities and/or limitations of criminal profiling as a tool for investigative psychology.
- Review this week’s DVD program, “Investigative Psychology.” Focus on the importance of utilizing valid research when conducting crime scene analysis/offender profiling.
- Review this week’s case study. Click here to access the case study. Think about how descriptive profiles, such as the one in the case study, might be helpful as a tool in Investigative Psychology.
- Review the Criminal Profiling Research Web site in this week’s Learning Resources.
- Think about how criminal profiling might assist in Investigative Psychology.
The assignment (1–3 pages):
- Analyze the importance of the validity of the information/research on which the criminal profile is based, the strengths and benefits of criminal profiling as a tool of investigative psychology, and the liabilities/limitations of it as a tool, that is:
- Explain at least two issues related to the validity of information or research on which criminal profiling is based and the importance of that validity;
- Explain at least two strengths and benefits of criminal profiling as a tool of investigative psychology; and
- Explain at least two liabilities or limitations of criminal profiling as a tool of investigative psychology.
- Summarize your analysis with a conclusion that you would draw about the use of criminal profiling as a tool of investigative psychology. In each instance, be specific and use examples to illustrate when possible.
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