Overview
Psychological theories of crime provide a framework for understanding the mental processes and behaviors that lead individuals to commit crimes. These theories emphasize the importance of individual differences, such as personality traits and cognitive distortions, in shaping criminal behavior. By e...
Key Terms
Example: Behaviorism suggests that criminal behavior can be learned through conditioning.
Example: A criminal may believe they are justified in their actions due to cognitive distortions.
Example: Psychopaths may commit crimes without feeling guilt.
Example: Children may imitate aggressive behaviors seen in their peers.
Example: Rehabilitation programs often focus on changing criminal thinking patterns.
Example: Profilers use psychological theories to create a profile of a suspect.