Criminal Behavior Theories Quiz

Strain theories suggest that certain stressors or difficulties in life increase the likelihood of criminal behavior. These stressors can be individual or societal, such as poverty, unemployment, or discrimination.

Control theories argue that individuals are more likely to engage in criminal activities when their bonds to society are weak. These bonds include attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief.

Biological explanations for crime focus on genetic, neurological, and physiological factors. These factors can include genetic predispositions, brain abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances.

Heritability refers to the proportion of variation in a trait that can be attributed to genetic factors. In criminology, it explores the influence of genetics on criminal behavior.

Epigenetics explores how environmental factors can influence gene expression. These external influences can alter gene activity without changing the underlying DNA sequence.

A model that explains how both structural factors, such as your location and opportunities within your routine activities, and individual choices, like the rational decision to commit a crime, influence a person's likelihood of being involved in criminal activity.

The physical distance between a potential victim and the offender, which can influence the likelihood of a crime occurring.

How visible and accessible a potential victim is to an offender. This can increase the likelihood of a crime happening.

The perceived value of a potential victim to an offender. This can influence the likelihood of a crime occurring.

The presence and effectiveness of protective measures, such as alarms, locks, or friends, around a potential victim, which can make the victim less appealing to offenders.

A theory in criminology that suggests that a person's lifestyle choices can increase their risk of becoming a victim of crime. This includes factors like homelessness, being a sex worker, or having criminal peers.

A theory that suggests that crime occurs when there is a convergence of three elements: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian.

A theory that argues that victims contribute to their own victimization through their actions or behaviors. This can include factors like provocation, facilitation, or precipitation.

This theory describes specific characteristics of potential victims that can make them more vulnerable to criminal acts.

This refers to the vulnerability of children and infants to crime because of their physical weaknesses, limited mental capabilities, legal constraints, and financial dependence on caregivers.

This refers to the increased vulnerability of women to crime based on factors like physical and mental weakness, cultural norms, financial dependence, and societal perceptions.

This refers to the vulnerability of older individuals to crime because they often share vulnerabilities similar to children, alongside their potential affluence and dependence.

This category describes the heightened vulnerability of individuals with mental impairments, substance abuse issues, or intellectual disabilities due to altered perceptions of reality or social challenges.

A crime is an act or omission that violates the law and is punishable by the state. It can be defined as breaking a moral rule codified in criminal law, causing blameworthy harm, or being condemned by society.

It is crucial to remember that Crime is a dynamic concept, meaning it changes over time, place, and culture. For example, what was once legal may become illegal and vice versa.

Crimes are categorized as 'core' offenses, which are recognized as serious, less culturally relative, and lead to harsher penalties, and 'non-core' offenses, which tend to be less severe with more flexibility in interpretation and consequences.

The term 'criminal' can be subjective and fluid. Someone considered criminal today might not be tomorrow for the same action, highlighting the dynamic nature of criminal behavior and legal definitions.

The definition of crime is grounded in law, but society plays a significant role in shaping what is considered 'deviant' or 'antisocial' behavior. This means that public opinion can influence criminal law and its application.

The definition of a crime is shaped by its time period, geographic location, and cultural values. What is considered a crime in one country or at one point in history may not be in another.

The study of crime goes beyond mere legal definitions to consider the broader societal context, including how crime is defined, measured, and perceived.

The concept of crime encompasses acts and omissions, meaning that the act of doing something or failing to do something can be categorized as a crime depending on the legal context.

The field of psychology focusing on how psychological principles and methods apply to the legal system, helping understand human behavior in legal contexts.

This area of forensic psychology examines criminal behavior using psychological theories and methods for better understanding and possibly reducing crime.

The application of psychological principles and methods to assist law enforcement in areas like criminal profiling, interviewing witnesses, and investigating crime.

Deals with the application of psychology within correctional settings like prisons and rehabilitation programs. It aims to help offenders with their mental health and reintegration into society.

The area of Forensic Psychology that analyzes human behavior in warfare and military operations, including stress management and combat effectiveness.

Focuses on applying psychological principles to various aspects of law, such as jury selection and witness testimony, to understand legal processes.

Utilizes psychological understanding to improve police efficiency, including training, handling stressful situations, and managing police teams.

A subfield of forensic psychology that examines how people's behavior can be affected by a crime. It aids in understanding the experiences of victims and witnesses.

A belief that others are trying to harm or deceive you. A common symptom of psychotic disorders.

A false belief that you have special powers, abilities, or importance. It is another common symptom of psychotic disorders.

Hearing voices or seeing things that aren't real. These are sensory experiences that are not based on external reality.

A psychological state where emotions and behaviors seem out of sync. It can involve unusual movements, speech, or behavior.

A disorder characterized by mood swings, including periods of extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression).

A disorder involving repetitive, impulsive behaviors that the individual cannot control, despite potential negative consequences.

A mental disorder that involves a persistent pattern of negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This pattern significantly affects the individual's daily life and well-being.

A type of hallucination in which the individual hears voices that are not real. These voices can give commands, make accusations, or engage in conversations.

A phenomenon where two individuals share the same delusion. They often develop a close, dependent relationship.

A symptom that involves a loss of motivation, interest, and pleasure in daily activities. It is often associated with severe mental disorders.

An individual's belief that they are being watched, pursued, or conspired against. It is a common symptom of paranoia.

A symptom that involves chaotic and incoherent speech patterns. It is often seen in individuals with severe mental illness.

A period of acute mental distress, often involving hallucinations, delusions, and disorganization. It is often associated with psychotic disorders.

A form of treatment for mental disorders that involves medication to manage symptoms.

The process of releasing individuals from institutions (such as mental asylums) back into the community. It can have implications for rates of violence.