Lecture 2 Developing Of Offending: Theories And Perspectives Flashcards
What is Social learning theory?
People learn about consequences of behaviour, vicarious learning
What can theories of crime be categorised as?
The individual- genes, trauma etc
Group and socialisation theories- peers and family influenced
Community influence- different areas provide different criminal opportunities
Societal/ macro level theories- society is structures in a way that creates crime.
What is a reinforcer?
Consequences that increase the chances of a behaviour
What are some reinforcers?
Social approval
Money
Sex
Social inclusion
Why is the social learning theory important and useful?
Because it explains the process if learning complex behaviours and assumes most if that process is normal
What is the cognitive theory of crime?
The idea that low intelligence leads to poor learning skulls which produce detrimental effects
Why is the cognitive theories considered controversial?
Weak support
Criminality is only weakly correlated with IQ
What is self regulation?
The ability to control reactions and behaviours
What could happen without self regulation?
Behaviours that use up a lot of self control could leave you vulnerable and is linked with lack of control
What happens if someone is unable to self regulate?
They are more likely to aggress
What could help improve self regulation?
Environmental factors
Good nutrition
How could biology explain aggressiveness?
Because it influences many variables such as intelligence, neurotransmitters and hormones
What other factors besides biological could impact criminal behaviour?
Personality
Environment
Why do many criminals begin offending in childhood?
Extreme ways in upbringing
Lack of love or rejection
Lack of supervision
Family disruption
Deviant parents
These along side other factors can induce aggressive or criminal behaviour
What symptoms are there of early criminality signs?
Hyperactive
Aggressive
Anti-social
Learning difficulties
