AC 3.2 Evaluate individualistic theories of criminality

Question 1

Individualistic theories
- learning theories
- Bandura

Answer 1

STRENGTHS
- Many studies support this theory
- Bandura takes into account we are social beings
- Highlights the fact we learn from each other
- Bandura’s study shows the importance of role models in learning deviant behaviour – children copies the aggressive behaviour which was rewarded

LIMITATIONS
-Based on laboratory Studies – artificial setting
- Ignores freedom of choice and assumes behaviour is completely based by learning experience - ignores the fact that other factors may be influential
- Not all observed behaviour is easily imitated
- Snapshot study with no long-term effects discovered
- Is Bobo doll experiment unethical?

Question 2

Individualistic theories
- psychodynamic
- Eysenck

Answer 2

STRENGTHS
- Useful in describing how measurable tendencies could increase a person’s risk of offending
- Some studies support his idea that E, N and P personalities are likely criminals
- Offenders tend to be extravert, neurotic and psychotic

LIMITATIONS
- Farrington – prisoners N and P not E personalities
- There is a correlation between personality type and prisoners but does not answer a cause of criminality
- Convicted offenders may not be the typical group – less impulsive criminals may not be getting caught
- Research in this area relies heavily on the self-report measures of personality
- Can personality be seen as a set of stable traits which cause people to behave consistently across situations?

Question 3

Individualistic theories
- psychological theories
- Freud

Answer 3

STRENGTHS
- Points to importance of early socialisation and family relationships in understanding criminal behaviour
- Have some influence on policy dealing with crime and deviance

LIMITATIONS
-Doubt the existence of the “unconscious mind” – how do we know it exists?
- Unscientific and subjective
- Rely on claims of the psychoanalysts that they can see into the workings of an individual’s mind to discover conflict and motivation
- Explains behaviour but only after it has happened