Psychological Perspective to Public Safety

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Psychological Perspective to Public Safety (PSS304)

Synopsis

PSS304 Psychological Perspective to Public Safety covers the theoretical and practical principles to help students understand public safety and security topics from a psychological perspective. Students will learn about the various leadership theories and examine their effectiveness in peacetime situations and crisis situations. Topics also include how psychological principles can be applied to crisis management, stakeholders’ engagement, crime prevention, criminal investigation, as well as working with victims. This course aims to equip students with leadership, communication, and organisational skills that will help them in managing the challenges related to public safety and security

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JULY

Topics

Introduction to Psychology and Public Safety
Role of Psychological Services in Public Safety
Leadership Theories and relevance to Public Safety
Personal Attributes and Behaviours of Effective Public Safety Leaders
Conflict Management for Security Professionals
Crisis Communication from a Psychological Perspective
The Psychology of Crowd Behaviours
Stress, Trauma, Grief, and Bereavement: Helping Survivors and First Responders in Managing Complex Emotions
Psychological Resilience and Community-Based Coping Mechanisms
Application of Psychology to Crime Prevention and Criminal Investigation
Victimology Theories and Consequences of Victimisation
Techniques for Empowering Victims

Learning Outcome

Compare the key leadership theories and examine the attributes of effective leaders (B4)
Analyse the characteristics of crowd behaviours and emotions during a crisis (B4)
Apply the psychological theories and concepts to better understand and help victims of crime (B3)
Recommend conflict management and crisis communication strategies based on the psychological theories and concepts (B5)
Propose strategies to build psychological resilience in the community (B5)
Appraise crime prevention and criminal investigation from a psychological perspective (B4)