PSC 271 Psychological Foundations of Police Work

3 hours 

This course is designed to explore and apply psychological principles and practice to the varied police functions in present-day society. Some of the specific topics that will be discussed and critically examined are the unique psychological stresses of police work and their effect on the police officer, his family, and the public; identification and management of the problem police officer; psychological stresses of command; psychology of crowds; riots and their effective control; the application of psychological principles to detective work. The interpersonal psychodynamics of the police with civilian complainants, victims, and violent, aggressive, assaultive individuals will be reviewed in depth.