Introduction to Forensic and Criminal Psychology, 8th edition

Published by Pearson (9 June 2026) © 2027

  • Dennis Howitt University of Loughborough
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Title overview

Explore the fascinating intersection of psychology, crime, and the justice system

Introduction to Forensic and Criminal Psychology offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to one of psychology's most dynamic and influential fields. Ideal for students of psychology, applied psychology, criminology, and related disciplines, this widely adopted text examines how psychological theory and research are applied to criminal behaviour, investigations, policing, and the legal system.

Combining accessible explanations with the latest empirical research, the 8th Edition helps students develop a strong understanding of the key concepts, theories, and debates that shape forensic and criminal psychology today. Topics include offender profiling, deception detection, mental health and crime, investigative psychology, policing, and criminal justice processes, all explored through evidence-based examples and real-world applications.

Updated throughout to reflect current developments in the field, this edition incorporates contemporary research from both UK and international perspectives, including expanded coverage of police use of force and a new chapter dedicated to fraud and financial crime. These updates provide students with valuable insight into emerging challenges and evolving practices within criminal justice and forensic psychology.

By connecting theory, research, and practice, the text encourages critical thinking and helps students evaluate evidence, engage with contemporary issues, and build a deeper understanding of the psychological factors that influence crime, offending behaviour, and the justice system. Whether studying for academic success or pursuing a future career in psychology, criminology, policing, or related professions, students will find this an invaluable resource throughout their studies.

Table of contents

  1. What is forensic and criminal psychology?
  2. The social context of crime
  3. Crime and the public
  4. Victims of crime
  5. Theories of crime
  6. Young offenders and beyond
  7. Theft and other crimes against property
  8. Fraud
  9. Violent offenders
  10. Sexual offenders 1: rapists
  11. Sexual offenders 2: child victims
  12. Police psychology
  13. Terrorism and hostage-taking incidents
  14. Eyewitness testimony
  15. Profile analysis 1: FBI-style offender profiling
  16. Profile analysis 2: investigative psychology, statistical and geographical profiling
  17. False allegations
  18. False and true confessions
  19. Lies, lie detecting and credibility 1: the psychology of deception
  20. Lies, lie detecting and credibility 2: the polygraph test, statement validity analysis and SCAN
  21. Children as witnesses
  22. Mental disorders and crime
  23. Mental, personality and intellectual problems in court
  24. Judges and lawyers
  25. Juries and decision making
  26. Effective prison
  27. Psychological treatments for prisoners and other offenders
  28. Risk, recidivism and desistance
 

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