Course Introduction

MODULE 1 – NATURE, SCOPE, AND METHODS OF CRIMINOLOGY

This module introduces you to the nature and scope of criminology, its interdisciplinary nature, and its connections with other social sciences like sociology, psychology, and law. It highlights the role of criminology in understanding and addressing different types of criminal behavior and social issues. You will also learn the commonly used research methods in criminology, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches, to assist law enforcement bodies during investigations and to analyze criminal occurrences.

MODULE 2 – EVOLUTION OF CRIMINOLOGICAL THEORIES

In this module, you will explore the historical development of criminological theories and pre-classical ideas rooted in demonology (associating criminal behavior with supernatural forces). This module also focuses on Jeremy Bentham and Cesare Beccaria's ideas, like rationality and deterrence, to understand and prevent criminal behavior. You will also learn neoclassical theories, positivism in criminology, sociological theories, and radical criminology, including its scope and usage in modern criminological studies.

MODULE 3 – UNDERSTANDING CRIMIMINAL BEHAVIOR FACTORS

This module provides insights about the nature of crime, causal factors contributing to criminal behavior, difficulties that drive people to commit illegal activities. You will also learn about methodologies implemented for collecting crime statistics to understand crime trends in India and abroad. The module concludes with knowledge of how crimes are defined under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and by local and special legislation required for addressing criminal offenses.

MODULE 4 – CRIME AND ITS CLASSIFICATIONS

This module begins by differentiating between sin, tort, and crime, along with examining the relationship between social issues, deviant behavior, and criminal acts and their influence on one another. You will also learn about criminal tribes and their historical significance in the context of crime. It also highlights the classification of crime based on different standards and criminals’ categorization as per their characteristics and motives.

MODULE 5 – CATEGORIES OF CRIMES

In this module, you will gain insights about different crime categories: crimes of violence (physical harm or threat), property crimes (unlawful activities related to the theft or damage of property), and crimes of the powerful (crime committed by individuals in lieu of their authority and influence). The module also covers public-order crimes that mess up societal norms. Finally, the module concludes with insights about cyber crime resulting from the misuse of digital technology and networks.

MODULE 6 – COMPONENTS OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

You will gain an in-depth understanding of the various components of the criminal justice system, the role of the legislative process in forming laws and policies related to criminal justice, the social relevance of the criminal justice system, the police system, the judicial system, key players involved (presiding officer, prosecutor, and defense counsel), the prosecution system, and the prison system, as well as the significant features of the Indian judicial system, like principles of independence, public trials, and fairness. It also covers fundamental elements like the use of technology and citizens' rights during the investigative phase, speedy trials, and access to justice.

MODULE 7 – CRIMINAL LIABILITY AND LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

This module covers the elements of criminal liability, the principles of group liability (holding individuals responsible for criminal actions of a group), specific offenses against persons (homicide, kidnapping, abduction, and rape under the Indian Penal Code), and property offences. You will also gain insights about the overview of criminal trials within the legal system, the criminal investigation and prosecution process to gather evidence, and the relevancy of evidence law in criminal cases.

MODULE 8 – JUVENILE JUSTICE AND CHILD WELFARE

This module focuses on the juvenile justice system (dealing with children who need care and protection) and children in conflict with the law. It also covers intervention strategies like restoration and repatriation of children, aftercare, adoption, foster care, and sponsorship programs. You will also learn about challenges encountered while reintegrating children into society and approaches to child welfare within the legal system.

MODULE 9 – PSYCHOLOGY AND CRIME

In this module, you will learn different approaches to understanding criminal behavior (psychological and psycho-analytical perspectives), factors influencing criminal psychology, personality trait assessment, and the use of psychometric tests. This module also highlights the importance and role of forensic psychology in criminal investigations, along with its applications within the context of prisons and courts.

MODULE 10 – PUNISHMENT AND CORRECTIONS

In this module, the meaning, objectives, and philosophy of punishment in the criminal justice system, guidelines and principles related to prison administration (prison adulates), and theories of punishment and their role in shaping penal policies are explored. You will also learn about recent approaches to punishment, modern perspectives on rehabilitation and restorative justice, and the correctional procedures and rules to manage offenders within correctional facilities to facilitate offender rehabilitation.

MODULE 11 – VICTIMOLOGY AND VICTIM SUPPORT

In this module, you will learn victimology theories, trauma reactions experienced by victims, and ways to understand and address victims’ psychological needs, like providing help, hope, and healing. You will also study forms of victimization, like sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, and physical assaults. The module also covers the concept of shelter services, like the Sexual Assault and Abuse Free Environment (SAAFE House), and the know-how of the impact of victimization on individuals and communities.

MODULE 12 – VICTIM BLAMING, VICTIM IMPACT, AND VICTIM-OFFENDER RECONCILIATION

This module focuses on victim blaming issues and the need to recognize and overcome them; the lasting impact of victimization on individuals and communities (emotional, psychological, and societal consequences); and the relationship between the police and victims. You will also learn about prosecution, the rights of victims and defendants, hate and bias crimes in the criminal justice system, and the need for specialized approaches along with victim/offender reconciliation programs to promote restorative justice.

MODULE 13 – POST-PROSECUTORIAL SERVICES AND RECOVERY IN CHILD ABUSE CASES

In this module, you will gain insights about post-prosecutorial services in child abuse cases, recovery and justice for child abuse victims, financial recovery, restorative justice principles, and taking up victim services as a profession. This module also covers how these elements contribute during restoration phase of survivors of child abuse beyond the legal process and highlights growing demand for specialized victim service professionals.

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