Forensic Psychology Flashcards
What is the top down approach?
An analysis of previous crimes creates a profile of a likely offender. This can me used to narrow the field of possible suspects.
What are the characteristics of a disorganised offender?
- random selection of victim
- likely to leave clues e.g. finger prints
- low intelligence/ competence
- abused in childhood
- low birth order
What are the characteristics of an organised offender?
- planned
- attempts to control victim
- body transported away for scene
- leaves few clues
- high intelligence/ competence
- Lives with partner
- High birth order
What are the stages of the top down approach?
- profiling inputs
- Decision process models
- Crime assessment
- Criminal profile
- Crime assessment
- Apprehension
What is the purpose of profiling inputs in the top down approach?
description of crime scene/ victims background, details of crime
What is the purpose of decision process models in the top down approach?
data organised into meaningful patters. Murder type, time factor, location factor.
What is the purpose of crime assessment in the top down approach?
organised offender/ disorganised offender
What is the purpose of criminal profile in the top down approach?
hypothesis about background habits/ beliefs
What is the purpose of crime assessment in the top down approach?
written report is made if no suspect is found it goes back to step 2
What is the purpose of apprehension in the top down approach?
the whole process is reviewed, ensures conclusions are legitimate.
How was the top down approach made?
FBI behavioural science unit interviewed 36 of the most sexually motivated serial killers. Inc ted bundy and Charles Manson.
