Psychological explanations - Psychodynamic explanations Flashcards
How does a deviant superego underpin crime?
During the phallic stage children mimic their same-sex parent as part of their complex even if the behaviour is criminal/deviant
How does an underdeveloped superego underpin crime?
The ability to feel guilt is impaired and the id has the most power
How does an overdeveloped superego underpin crime?
Individuals feel guilty all the time, and being punished for a crime relieves some of that guilt
When does the superego develop?
Four years old
Who researched the 44 thieves?
Bowlby
How many of the thieves were separated from their mothers before the age of two for more than six months?
17
What are the three defence mechanisms implicated in criminal behaviour?
Displacement, sublimination and rationalisation
What is sublimination?
A strong id impulse is expressed in a more socially accepted/diluted way
What is rationalisation?
Explaining a negative behaviour in a rational and accepted way when it is actually very negative
