Latest Dissertation Topics in Criminal Psychology

Introduction

The field of criminal psychology is constantly evolving with efforts to expand academic knowledge through interdisciplinary research, reflective case studies, and refinement of existing frameworks. Exploring this field to derive new insights and to contribute to its development requires a critical approach to review the existing body of work.

Selecting a research topic that is both profound and original is a challenging task that requires deep subject-matter expertise. This article aims to present a selection of novel and impactful research topics in criminal psychology that addresses the gaps identified in recent studies. Specifically, we will explore suggestions from the 2025 research work by Kamal Hasme and Eshan Singha [1].

By considering these suggestions, this article will also discuss their potential implications, providing a comprehensive overview of future research in criminal psychology.

Areas of Concern in Existing Knowledge of Criminal Psychology

1. Absence of Validity and Inaccuracy in Criminal Profiling Methods

Criminal profiling, or psychological profiling, is an investigative technique that classifies and groups the characteristics of offenders based on personality, behaviour, geography, modus operandi, victimology, etc.

A notable example is the FBI caught Theodore "Ted" Kaczynski in 1996 using psychological profiling in the Unabomber case. However, subjective inferences and assumptions of the profiler may lead to false interpretations and wrong accusations [1].

For example, in 1993, Colin Stagg was wrongly accused and charged in connection with the murder of a young woman. The police force used criminal profiling techniques as a part of an investigation.

However, they entrapped Stagg, coercing him to provide either a confession or revealing "guilty knowledge"—despite lacking solid evidence against him. He was ultimately found innocent and released [2].

The judge criticised the profiling method, questioning the validity and accuracy of the assessment process. This case highlights concerns about the scientific rigour of criminal profiling, underscoring the need for further exploration of its effectiveness and reliability.

2. Ineffectiveness of Psychophysiological Techniques in Investigation

Psychophysiological methods in criminal interrogations became widely popular. It uses physiological responses such as heart rate, skin conductivity, and pupil dilation to identify the deceptions of the suspect.

But the concerns arise due to the fragmented accuracy of these methods. Several critics claim that these methods cannot be taken as an independent source of evidence. As the physiological responses can also occur from deceptive behaviours such as stress, anxiety, and other underlying conditions [1].

There are numerous cases where false positives and false negatives lead to wrong judgements. For example, in “the green river killer” case, the offender Gary Leon Ridgway bypassed a polygraph test, which led him to commit several more murders [3].

This incident greatly emphasizes the inefficiency of psychophysiological methods, which mandates a thorough analysis to make these methods more accurate.

3. Ethical Considerations of Applying Narco-Analysis in Suspects

Narco-analysis test is an investigative tool used on suspects to extract information about the crime. But this method is an unconventional way of retrieving information which evades the privacy and constitutional rights of an individual.

In 2010 in India, the Supreme Court came across a case where an individual was coerced to go under a narco-analysis test, which was later defined as unconstitutional and against human liberty [1].

Although this method is efficient in deriving the information from the suspect, there are some ethical concerns that pose questions about the accuracy of these methods for deliberate usage [4].

Suggested Research Topics.

Research Topic 1: Evaluating the Validity and Reliability of Criminal Profiling Techniques in Modern Forensic Investigations

This topic aims is to evaluate the scientific validity of criminal profiling, particularly the assumptions that it often leads to misinterpretations and wrongful accusations, despite any limitations. The research will also examine several historical examples, including Colin Stagg's case, and propose ways to improve current profiling practices by strengthening scientific foundations and enhancing their effectiveness.

Suggested Research Questions:

• What are the primary biases in criminal profiling methods, and how can they be mitigated to improve the reliability of criminal profiling techniques?
• What role can technological advancements play to enhance the reliability and objectivity of criminal profiling methods?
• How do limitations in criminal profiling methods impact investigative accuracy, and what strategies can be implemented to reduce these limitations in forensic settings?

Suggested Research Methodologies:

• Literature Review and Meta-Analysis: Collect secondary data from previously published studies and conduct a meta-analysis of the studies to evaluate accuracy and bias in profiling cases.
• Mixed Methods Approach: Conduct a mixed methods approach with systematic reviews and expert interviews to assess how technological advancement has contributed or will contribute to profiling techniques.
• Qualitative Analysis: Collect historical case reports and conduct a thematic analysis to identify the themes and patterns in criminal profiling techniques to identify the limitations of these techniques.

Potential Implications:

• Enhanced Profiling Accuracy: The research might establish ways to standardize criminal profiling methods based on scientific evidence, reducing the negative consequences.
• Policy and Training Reforms: Findings could contribute to new training protocols or policies for law enforcement agencies to ensure that criminal profiling is utilized ethically and accurately.

Suggestions for Initial Reading:

Ribeiro, R. A. B., & de Matos Soeiro, C. B. B. (2021). Analysing criminal profiling validity: Underlying problems and future directions. International journal of law and psychiatry, 74, 101670.

Petherick, W., & Brooks, N. (2021). Reframing criminal profiling: a guide for integrated practice. Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, 28(5), 694-710.

Research Topic 2: The Effectiveness and Ethical Implications of Psychophysiological Techniques in Criminal Investigations

This research focuses on the limitations of psychophysiological tools, such as polygraph tests, and their inability to accurately detect deception. The study will also explore the critical considerations regarding the use of these methods and suggest ways to improve their reliability for more accurate results.

Suggested Research Questions

• What are the factors that cause polygraph detections beyond deception, and how can they be accounted for improved criminal investigations?
• What are the main ethical concerns in psychophysiological tests and how they can be addressed to improve fairness and efficiency?
• How can modern psychophysiological methods be improved and enhanced in comparison with the existing methods?

Suggested Methodologies

• Experimental Study: Conduct a quantitative study design that involves psychophysiological tests and controlled testing to statistically evaluate the false positives and false negatives.
• Ethical Analysis: Collect secondary data from existing ethical frameworks and guidelines and conduct expert interviews to explore ethical issues thematically.
• Comparative Analysis of Alternative Methods: Gather secondary data from document reviews, case studies, and expert interviews. Analyse the effectiveness of these methods thematically.

Potential Implications:

• Improved Deception Detection: It may enhance the existing psychophysiological methods and will strengthen the credibility in criminal investigations.
• Ethical Guidelines: Findings could address the ethical standards for polygraph use that ensure effectiveness and credibility.

Suggestions for Initial Reading

Garrett-Ruffin, S., Hindash, A. C., Kaczkurkin, A. N., Mears, R. P., Morales, S., Paul, K., ... & Keil, A. (2021). Open science in psychophysiology: An overview of challenges and emerging solutions. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 162, 69-78.

Michalicova, Z. (2022). Psychophysiological Detection of Deception in Children and Adolescents. Polygraph & Forensic Credibility Assessment: A Journal of Science and Field Practice, 3.

Research Topic 3: Narco-Analysis in Criminal Investigations: Ethical, Legal, and Accuracy Concerns

This research explores the controversial nature of narco-analysis in criminal investigations and its ability to elicit information from suspected individuals. It also evaluates the legal standpoint, ethical implications, and existing policies in the development of a fairer and more transparent framework for the application of narco-analysis techniques.

Suggested Research Questions:

• What legal and ethical implications hinder the responsible use of narco-analysis, and how can accountability be improved in these methods?
• How accurate is narco-analysis in obtaining reliable information from suspects, and what are the primary limitations that affect its reliability in criminal investigations?
• How to safeguard human rights in the application of narco-analysis while ensuring its effectiveness in obtaining investigative information?

Suggested Methodologies:

• Examination of Ethical Concerns and Policies: A qualitative approach utilizing legal case reviews and thematic analysis to explore ethical and legal issues surrounding narco-analysis.
• Survey of Law Enforcement and Forensic Professionals: A quantitative approach based on surveys of law enforcement professionals, employing structured surveys with descriptive statistics and correlation analysis.
• Systematic Literature Review of Accuracy Studies: A quantitative approach involving secondary data from published studies, with meta-analysis to evaluate the reliability of narco-analysis techniques.

Potential Implications:

• Ethical/Legal Reform: The study could lead to clearer legal guidelines and ethical standards for narco-analysis, ensuring fair use while safeguarding human rights.
• Improved Investigative Processes: Findings may prompt the development of more accurate, ethical questioning methods, reducing the risk of abuse and false outcomes.

Suggestions for Initial Reading

Sharma, M. (2023). NARCO-ANALYSIS IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION AND TRIAL: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW. The American Journal of Political Science Law and Criminology, 5(06), 05-08.

Vaswani, V., Shenoy, V., & Ifeanyichukwu, A. (2024). Medicolegal and Ethical Perspectives in the Use of Narcoanalysis in Criminal Investigations in India. Archives of Medicine and Health Sciences, 12(2), 281-283.

Conclusion

As criminal psychology continues to evolve, it is important to consider the challenges in areas such as criminal profiling, psychophysiological methods, and narco-analysis. Addressing the limitations and ethical concerns in these investigative techniques improves their scientific validity, reliability, and fairness.

Future research in these areas has the potential to shape more accurate, ethical, and effective practices in criminal investigations and will meaningfully contribute to the criminal justice system.

The selection of good dissertation topics reflects your subject knowledge in your domain. It is an integral part of your research, which initiates the path you choose to explore. At PhD Assistance we help you select a research topic that addresses key research gaps and provides the support you need to succeed. Visit PhD Assistance today!