Psychodynamic explanations of offending behaviour

Question 1

What did Blackburn argue about the superego?

Answer 1

it is deficient or inadequate then criminal behaviour is inevitable because the id is given free reign

Question 2

The weak superego?

Answer 2

if same-sex parent is absent during the phallic stage, the child can’t internalise a fully formed superego as there is no opportunity for identification - crime more likely

Question 3

The deviant superego?

Answer 3

if superego the child internalises has immoral values this would lead to offending behaviour

Question 4

The over-harsh superego?

Answer 4

the individual is crippled by guilt unlike a healthy superego which may act as a firm parent - crime more likely to satisfy

Question 5

What did Bowlby argue?

Answer 5

the ability to form meaningful relationships in adulthood was dependent upon the child forming warm relationships with a mother-figure

Question 6

What is the maternal bond viewed as by Bowlby?

Answer 6

unique and superior to any other

Question 7

What is affectionless psychopathy characterised by?

Answer 7

a lack of guilt, empathy and feelings for others

Question 8

What did Bowlby find with 44 juvenile thieves?

Answer 8

14 of the sample showed ‘affectionless psychopathy’ - of the 14
12 had experienced prolonged separation from mothers