Psychological explanations: Psychodynamic explanations

Question 1

Blackburn

Answer 1

If the superego is somehow deficient or inadequate then criminal behaviour behaviour is inevitable because the id is given ‘free rein’ and not properly controlled. 3 types of inadequate superego have been proposed.

Question 2

The weak superego

Answer 2

If the same sex parent is absent during the phallic stage, the child cannot internalise a fully formed superego as there is no opportunity for identification. This would make immoral or criminal behaviour more likely.

Question 3

The deviant superego

Answer 3

If the superego that the child internalises has immoral or deviant values this would lead to offending behaviour.
E.g. a boy raised by a criminal father is not likely to associate guilt with wrongdoing.

Question 4

The over-harsh superego

Answer 4

(excessively punitive) Individual is crippled by guilt and anxiety. This may (unconsciously) drive the individual to perform criminal acts in order to satisfy the superego’s overwhelming need for punishment.