Criminal Thinking Patterns - Yochelson & Samenow

Question 1

Background of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 1

Rational choice theory: Offenders don’t act on impulse but rationally choose to commit crimes. Basis of the decision is cost-benefit analysis

Question 2

Aims of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 2

Understand the makeup of criminal personality

• Establish techniques that could be used to alter the personality disorder that produce crime
• Encourage an understanding of legal responsibility
• Establish techniques that can be effective in preventing criminal behaviour

Question 3

Participants of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 3

255 males various backgrounds

Half plead NGRI

Question 4

Method of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 4

Series of interviews conducted over several years

Question 5

Findings of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 5

• Criminals are restless, dissatisfied and irritable
• While at school considered requests from teachers as impositions
• Continually set themselves apart from others
• Want to live a life of excitement at any cost
• Lacking empathy, angry way of life

Question 6

Conclusion of Yochelson & Samenow

Answer 6

52 thinking patterns established in criminals

‘Errors’ Displayed more in criminals