Research

Consequences of accommodation and detention

We study the effects of various environmental conditions on mental health, behavior and brain function and structure of incarcerated individuals. Among other things, this research ties in with our evaluation of the treatment of offenders with addiction problems in the "Entziehungsanstalt" (§ 64 StGB).

Consequences of accommodation and detention

Human Behavior Laboratory

We simulate real-world scenarios for improved understanding and prediction of human behaviour. We use virtual reality for behavioural tracking and also apply our methods in prisons.

Human Behavior Laboratory

Social Psychology

The social psychological research focus addresses issues of importance to society as a whole. We conduct surveys and experiments to gain a better understanding of people’s attitudes and decisions.

Social Psychology

Sexlab

In our Sexlab, we study the fundamentals of human sexuality in the laboratory. We mainly use psychophysiological and neuroendocrinological methods.

Sexlab

Technologies and sexualities

We are investigating, both in the laboratory and with the help of surveys, the influence of new technologies on human sexuality, such as the use of robots, the internet or virtual reality.

Technologies and sexualities

Sexual Medicine

Within the framework of clinical studies, we address various questions, such as sexuality of people with borderline personality disorder, the effects of opposite-sex hormone therapy in trans people, as well as the new diagnosis of Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Disorder (CSBD) in the ICD-11.

Sexual Medicine

The Essen Climate Evaluation Schema - EssenCES©

The questionnaire "EssenCES©" was developed at the Institute. It is a short assessment form to evaluate the atmosphere of wards in forensic psychiatry and in prisons.

EssenCES©

Expert opinion research

We examine the quality of content and design of external prognosis reports for the "Maßregelvollzug" (according to § 16 para. 3 MRVG-NW) and compare them with the corresponding statements of the hospitals.

Expert opinion research

FAQs/Internships

Answers to frequently asked questions about the Institute and possible opportunities to get involved.

FAQs/Internships