Profilers, Psychopaths and Prime Time: The Truth about Forensic Psychology

Do you love watching true crime? Can’t wait to get your Netflix crime drama fix? Enjoy watching ‘Psychological Thrillers’? Then this event is for you!

Hosted by Dr Samantha M Walkden from The School of Psychology, this unique event will provide an insight into the impact that the media may have on the discipline of forensic psychology. Alongside Dr Courtney Hammond, we will discuss and explore examples and case studies within both fiction and non-fictional mainstream and social media. The purpose of this event is to unpack why there is a public fascination with this type of media, and to explore the positive and negative impacts this may have on the understanding of forensic psychology. Overall, the insightful and engaging event will examine how the public interprets, engages, and understands the media they consume.

We will begin with an academic discussion between the hosts, before pausing for a short break where a buffet style snack bar will be provided along with non-alcoholic drinks. You will be encouraged to submit questions to the hosts, which will then be answered in the second half of the event.

This event is open to anyone who is over the age of 16 and has an interest in the topics described above. You do not have to be a current student, or staff member at the University of Greater Manchester, we welcome the wider public to this event. It would be ideal if the audience has experience of watching films and TV shows that explore crime and forensic related topics, and/or uses social media.

This is an interactive event, encouraging audience participation, with discussion between both the hosts and the audience. You will also have the opportunity to engage with real psychological research, to help the academic team understand your experiences and knowledge around the subject matter, this is optional and will be explained to you at the start of the event.