Cj499 Bachelors Capstone: Criminological Theory
In a 3- to 4-page paper (excluding title and reference pages), summarize and provide an example of how a biological, sociological, and psychological theory of crime causation affects human behavior and actions. Be sure to provide an example of each theory and include a reference to the examples that may include an article, case study, adjudicated case, etc.
PLEASE NOTE: This assignment will require outside research. Use at least three credible sources. You may consult the Library, the internet, the textbook, other course material, and other outside resources in supporting your task, using proper APA citation style.
Criminological Theory: Biological, Sociological, and Psychological Perspectives
Introduction
Criminological theory seeks to explain why certain individuals engage in criminal behavior while others do not. There are three major categories of theory related to crime causation: biological, sociological, and psychological. Each perspective offers a different view on what influences criminal actions. This paper will summarize and provide examples of how biological, sociological, and psychological theories affect human behavior.
Biological Theories of Crime Causation
Biological theories focus on innate physical characteristics that may predispose individuals to criminal conduct. One such theory is the XYY syndrome hypothesis, which proposes that males born with an extra Y chromosome exhibit more aggressive tendencies (MedlinePlus, 2020). In the 1960s, there was a belief that men with the XYY genotype had an increased risk of criminal behavior. However, subsequent research found no definitive link, and the hypothesis is now considered discredited (NIH, 2022).
A more widely accepted biological theory is low resting heart rate. Studies have found criminal offenders on average have lower resting heart rates than non-criminals, indicating lower physiological arousal or fear response (Porter et al., 2001). For example, one study of 171 incarcerated males found those with serious or violent criminal histories had significantly lower resting heart rates than those with non-violent histories (Ortiz & Raine, 2004). The implication is that individuals with low resting heart rates may engage in criminal acts for heightened stimulation or sensation-seeking.
Sociological Theories of Crime Causation
Sociological theories focus on social and environmental factors that may influence criminal behavior. Differential association theory, proposed by Edwin Sutherland in 1939, suggests criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others who engage in criminal thinking and activities (Akers & Sellers, 2013). For instance, youth who associate with delinquent peers are more likely to adopt delinquent attitudes and engage in delinquent acts themselves.
Another sociological theory is strain theory, developed by Robert Merton in 1938. It proposes that societal pressure or stress to achieve socially accepted goals (e.g. monetary success) coupled with a lack of access to legitimate means to achieve those goals can result in criminal coping mechanisms (Agnew, 1992). For example, youth living in impoverished urban areas may feel pressure to acquire expensive consumer goods yet lack legitimate job opportunities, increasing their risk of turning to illicit activities like drug dealing.
Psychological Theories of Crime Causation
Psychological theories focus on mental processes and traits that could influence criminal behavior. Trait theory proposes certain personality characteristics are linked to criminal conduct, such as impulsivity, risk-taking, and antisocial tendencies (Gottfredson & Hirschi, 1990). For instance, a meta-analysis found psychopathic traits like lack of empathy and remorse were strongly correlated with criminal recidivism across various offender samples (Salekin et al., 1996).
Another prominent psychological theory is social learning theory, developed by Ronald Akers and Robert Burgess in the 1960s. It integrates elements of differential association and operant conditioning, suggesting criminal behavior is learned through association and reinforcement of criminal definitions (Akers & Sellers, 2013). For example, a youth who grows up in an environment where criminal acts are modeled and rewarded may come to see crime as an acceptable way to solve problems or achieve goals.
Conclusion
In summary, biological, sociological, and psychological theories each offer perspectives on how innate traits and environmental factors can influence criminal behavior. While more research is still needed, integrating concepts across these domains may provide the most comprehensive understanding of crime causation and its effects on human actions. Continued theoretical advancement can help inform criminal justice policy and practices.
