BSFS Forensic Psychology and Criminal Behavior 3

Question 1

Which legal standard in the United States requires that expert testimony be based on a reliable scientific methodology that has been tested and peer-reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Daubert standard

Answer

The Daubert standard (Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, 1993) requires federal judges to act as gatekeepers, ensuring expert testimony rests on reliable, validated scientific methodology.

Question 2

What is the primary distinction between a 'signature' and a 'modus operandi' in serial offense analysis?

Accepted Answer

Signature reflects psychological needs expressed beyond what is necessary; MO is the functional method of committing the crime

Answer

The signature reflects the offender's psychological and emotional needs (e.g., ritual behaviors) and remains consistent, while the MO consists of practical behaviors that may evolve.

Question 3

Which disorder is characterized by a pattern of grandiosity, lack of empathy, and a pervasive need for admiration, often encountered in forensic settings?

Accepted Answer

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Answer

Narcissistic Personality Disorder involves a stable pattern of grandiose self-image, exploitative behavior, and inability to empathize, features that often intersect with criminal conduct.

Question 4

The 'bystander effect' in social psychology is most relevant to which forensic context?

Accepted Answer

Explaining why witnesses fail to intervene or report crimes in group settings

Answer

The bystander effect (Darley & Latané) shows that individuals are less likely to offer help or report crimes when others are present, due to diffusion of responsibility.

Question 5

In the context of eyewitness testimony, which factor is considered a 'system variable' (controllable by the justice system)?

Accepted Answer

Lineup administration procedures

Answer

System variables, identified by Gary Wells, are factors like lineup procedures and instructions that law enforcement can control to reduce eyewitness error.

BSFS - Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science Practice Test

BSFS - Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science Practice Test

BSFS Forensic Psychology and Criminal Behavior 3