Introduction to criminal psychology DEFINITIONS AND THEORIES OF CRIME

Aim and Objectives AIM: Compare and contrast definitions of crime and introduce theories of crime. OBJECTIVES: YSBAT: Compare and contrast the Consensus, Conflict, and Interactionist definitions of Crime. Compare and contrast the classical and positive theories of crime.

CONSENSUS VIEW The legal system: reflection of what is considered acceptable or unacceptable within a society Consensus in society expressed as norms/rules. Crime: a violation of criminal law: an act committed that the majority disapproves of. Function of criminal law: Maintain agreed aims of society

CONFLICT VIEW Society consists of competing diverse groups. Inequality of power creates conflict which promotes crime. Crime function of Capitalist system and type of crime dictated by the system. Poor Theft Middle class Tax Evasion Wealth Exploitation

CONFLICT VIEW Criminal laws protect the rich and dominant ruling class. View FAILS to acknowledge individual differences in crime. So… the conflict approach views no act being naturally immoral or criminal but an act defined on a social basis. Capitalism leads to unequal distribution of wealth. Poor resort to crime Wealthy commit crime to increase wealth: they control a legal system that discriminates against the poor.

X INTERACTIONIST VIEW MEANING Individual behaviour is guided by the interpretation of reality and events. Reactions of other people important: whether positive or negative. Evaluation of ones own behaviour is based on those meanings. Focus is on? MEANING X

INTERACTIONIST VIEW: Labelling Theory Labelling Theory: Law is applied to the benefit of those with power. Which other view agrees with this statement? Conflict theory Decide on label of “criminal”. Gove (1975): Two consequences of labelling: creation of stigma modification of self-image STIGMA: Result of reactions of others: may lead to discrimination. Consequence of discrimination: people may change self-image to suit the label: self-fulfilling prophecy. Once labelled: person fits into role: deviation amplification (Lemart, 1951). Intervention and punishment only serve to reinforce self-perceptions.

Theories of Crime: Psychological approach. There is no single theory or explanation of crime: crime is a social construct which changes over time and across cultures. Can you think of any examples of behaviour that have been considered criminal at one time or viewed criminal according to culture?

Theories of Crime: Psychological approach. The basis of the argument in to explain criminal behaviour is the nature-nurture debate. Are criminals born bad or made mad?

Classical Theory Free Will is a key concept in this theory Individual has a choice in whether he/she commits crime. If payoffs/rewards outweigh the consequences of crime, then crime is likely to increase. Reflection of this view is the use of severe punishments in the mid 1700s to 1800s. E.g. vagrant in society may be punished by public flogging. Bevaria agreed with free will but believe that “the punishment should fit the crime. Classical theory disappeared until the and 1980s with the emergence of neoclassical and conservative criminology.

Positivist Theory Idea of free will in explaining crime is a contentious issue. Free will must be considered together with: Biological factors (genetics) Psychological constructs (personality) Learning (operant and social learning theory) Moral development.

Activity! Task 1: Definitions of Crime (a.c.1.1.) Firstly, in groups brainstorm ideas for the three definitions of crime: consensus, conflict, and interactionist. Then transfer information and ideas to your task 1 sheet in your assignment booklet.

Aim and Objectives AIM: Compare and contrast definitions of crime and introduce theories of crime. OBJECTIVES: YSBAT: Compare and contrast the Consensus, Conflict, and Interactionist definitions of Crime. Compare and contrast the classical and positive theories of crime.

We will look at biological explanations for crime! NEXT LESSON… We will look at biological explanations for crime!