This is the first academic textbook for the new strand of psychological science called Investigative Psychology. It draws upon over 20 years of research studies and professional reports as well as unpublished material. This research is gradually providing solutions for crimes from arson or burglary to stalking and serial killing. Throughout, it is structured according to the operational challenges the research informs. These extend beyond what can be inferred about a perpetrator’s likely characteristics, to questions about suspects, linking offences to a common offender, locating an offender’s likely home base and predicting where and when the next offence will be committed.
Additionally, the book provides a comprehensive commentary on the processes central to the effective investigation and successful prosecution of crime. Three broad processes are considered: the retrieval, evaluation and utilization of investigative information; strategic and tactical decision-making in investigations; the preparation and presentation of the legal case in court.
The book recognizes that this is a lively new area of activity and captures the debates inherent in this developing domain. Topics discussed include the impact of genetics, social processes and eyewitness testimony, amongst others.
