Topic - Talks and Lectures, Schools and Colleges
Our ‘Battle of the Ology's’ returns for its third year.
Unsure of the differences between Forensic Psychology and Criminology? Are you interested in studying a degree in these areas? Our Battle of the Ology’s event takes a deep dive into the shocking case of the Menendez brothers from both a criminological and forensic psychologist viewpoint.
In 1996, Kyle and Eric Menendez were sentenced to life in prison for killing their parents however, recently the case has resurfaced due to the popular reception of Netflix’s 'The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story' and 'The Menendez Brothers' documentary. Due to the popularity of the series and new evidence being uncovered, the case has been reviewed. In 2025, their punishment was reduced to 50 years, which meant they could apply for parole, which was denied later that year.
Join Dr William Webster, Senior Lecturer for BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology  and Lauren Steckles-Young, Deputy Programme Leader for BSc (Hons) Criminology, as they discuss the Menendez brothers' case and explore ways you would critically analyse real-world cases when studying either course at the University of Sunderland.
Psychology:
We’ll look at what a psychologist might do when helping to decide if someone is safe to be released on parole. You’ll learn how psychologists use evidence and professional judgement to predict whether someone might reoffend, and how they make sure their work is fair, ethical, and based on facts rather than emotions or media pressure.
Criminology:
We’ll think about how true crime TV shows, documentaries, and social media shape the way the public see criminals and the justice system. We’ll also explore how some criminals, like the Menendez brothers, become famous or even gain a fan following, and what that says about our culture and the media’s influence on public opinion.
Viewer discretion is advised.
This event will feature a discussion of a real-life true crime case. The content may include references to violence, criminal acts, and other sensitive topics that some individuals may find distressing.
For any questions, please email events.recruitment@sunderland.ac.uk.