1. Explanations of Criminal Behavior

2. Causes of Crime Many different theories
There is a spiritual relationship with crime, but it is not talked about in textbooks as a scientific theory because it is not observable – no empirical data

3. Classical Theory Rests on two assumptions:
1. Free will (people choose to commit crimes)
2. Reason (they choose decisions that will benefit them)

4. Social Structure Theories
Links social class and things like poverty, unemployment, and poor education to criminal behavior

5. Biological Theories
“Criminals are born not made.”
Focuses on genetics

6. Psychological Theories
Focuses on mental and emotional elements in criminal behavior – mental processes (defective) usually happens as a young child.
Deals with personalities
Psychopath/sociopath – Charles Manson/Serial Killers