Trait Theories & Criminal Behavior
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In reference to trait theories: Give examples of one physical, one environmental, and one social factor that may affect criminal behavior. What kind of criminal behavior might result from each of these factors?
Describe one of the psychological or physical traits of trait theories associated with criminal behavior and give an example of a recent criminal who exhibits this trait. Might this crime be prevented in future circumstances? Explain.
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Solution Summary
In reference to trait theories, this solution gives examples of one physical, one environmental, and one social factor that may affect criminal behavior, as well as the kind of criminal behavior that might result from each of these factors. It also describes one of the psychological or physical traits of trait theories associated with criminal behavior and gives an example of a recent criminal who exhibits this trait. It also explains if this crime might be prevented in future circumstances, and how. Supplemented with an article on this topic for further research.
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This response is also attached, along with another informative overview of trait theories of crime.
RESPONSE:
Interesting questions!
1. In reference to trait theories: Give examples of one physical (e.g. lack of self-control or aggression), one environmental (e.g. high unemployment rate), and one social factor (e.g., interpersonal conflict) that may affect criminal behavior. What kind of criminal behavior might result from each of these factors?
There are many different trait theories (see attached chapter for an excellent overview). This question taps into the antecedents of crime. The primary tenet of the trait theory of crime is that the relationship reflects an enduring personality characteristic that remains stable over time. The view that criminals have physical or mental traits that makes them different or abnormal (e.g., chemical imbalance, antisocial personality disorders, high levels of male hormones, etc.). Biosocial theorists argue physical, environmental, and social conditions work in concert to produce behavior (see attached chapter).
Antecedents of Crime
· Aggression and Impulsivity: (Physical factor: Abnormal levels of male sex hormones (androgens) and testosterone have been linked to aggressive behavior): Need for control and power; Inability to delay gratification; lack of planning; lack of forethought (Physical factor) (E.g., implicated in murders, rape, property crimes, assaults, assault and battery, property crimes, etc.).
· Social Pressure: (Social factor): Doing what others expect; inability to say "no" to others (e.g., property crimes, break and ...
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