Forensic behavioural science is concerned with how individual characteristics interact with the environment to produce criminal behaviour and what might be done to prevent such behaviour. It also includes the way in which offenders are identified and managed by law enforcement, courts and criminal justice systems.
Within the area of forensic behavioural science, our researchers engage in a broad range of clinical, epidemiological and experimental research in the following key research streams.
Our research programs
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Aggression and violence
We examine ways to develop violence prevention and intervention programs that can successfully reduce violent behaviour.
Research stream leader: Professor Michael Daffern
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Childhood maltreatment and youth offending
We examine the causes and consequences of childhood maltreatment over the lifespan, and investigate models for effectively preventing and responding to youth offending.
Research stream leaders: Dr Nina Papalia and Professor James Ogloff
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Complex criminal behaviour
We research problem behaviours including stalking, arson, family violence, radicalism, extremism and sexual offending.
Research stream leader: Professor Troy McEwan
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Culture, psychology and law
We research best practices for working effectively with multicultural clients in psycho-legal scenarios.
Research stream leader: Dr Benjamin Spivak
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Forensic mental health
We research the assessment and treatment of people with a mental disorder and history of offending.
Research stream leaders: Dr Tessa Maguire and Dr Trentham Furness
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Psychology and legal processes
We apply psychological principles to better understand and improve policing, law and the legal system.
Research stream leaders: Dr Benjamin Spivak, Dr Michael Trood and Distinguished Professor James Ogloff
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Rehabilitation, reintegration and managing risk for crime
We design, evaluate and support the delivery of evidence-based practices to assist people to attain crime-free lives.
Research stream leaders: Dr Caleb Lloyd and Professor Michael Daffern
Interested in studying a research or coursework degree?
We offer postgraduate research and clinical qualifications, as well as online graduate degrees and single unit enrolments, in the area of forensic behavioural science, forensic psychology and forensic mental health.
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Catalyst Consortium
We received a grant from the Victorian Corrections Minister in 2017 to establish the Catalyst Consortium, conducting research into serious violent and sexual offending and establishing a partnership between leading researchers, clinical leaders and correctional/forensic mental health partner organisations to systematically address persistent violence and sexual offending.
Explore more of our centre
Contact the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science
There are many ways to engage with us. Whether you’re a student, from the media or an organisation interested in our professional development and training programs or consulting services, contact us on +61 3 9214 3887 or via cfbs@swinburne.edu.au.