CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 3-2 Module Three Assignment: compare concepts from classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories, and analyze their impact on the criminal justice system

CJ 340 Module Three Assignment Guidelines and Rubric

Overview

In this assignment, you will compare concepts from classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories, and analyze their impact on the criminal justice system.

Prompt

In Module Two, you learned about concepts from the classical school of thought. In this module, you have learned about biological, psychological, and sociological theories of criminology in the positivist school of thought. This assignment will help you gain a better understanding of the differences between these theories and their impact on the criminal justice system, and will assist you in the completion of Project Two in Module Seven.

Use the Module Three Assignment Template to address the following:

  • Define the following in 25-50 words each:
    • Classical theory of criminology
    • Biological theory of criminology
    • Psychological theory of criminology
    • Sociological theory of criminology
  • What are some of the major themes or concepts associated with each theory? Create a 3–6 item bulleted list in the template.
  • What are some of the criticisms or weaknesses associated with each theory? Create a 2–3 item bulleted list in the template.
  • How has each theory impacted the criminal justice system? In 100–150 words for each theory, address the following:
    • How have laws and policies been affected?
    • What was the impact on law enforcement?
    • What was the impact on courts and sentencing?
    • What was the impact on corrections?

Specifically, the following rubric criteria must be addressed:

  • Define classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories of criminology.
  • Describe major themes or concepts associated with each theory.
  • Describe criticisms or weaknesses of classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories of criminology.
  • Analyze the impact of classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories on the criminal justice system.

What to Submit

This assignment should be 500–800 words in total and must be completed using the Module Three Assignment Template Word Document. Any references must be cited in APA style. See the Shapiro Library APA Style Guide for more information on citations.

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 3-1 Practice Activity: Strain and Cultural Deviance Theories

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 3-1 Practice Activity: Strain and Cultural Deviance Theories

CJ 340 Module Three Practice Activity Guidelines and Rubric

Overview

In this practice activity, you will identify key points of strain and cultural deviance theories. You will then identify a program or policy that was created in response to each type of theory and explain how that program or policy attempts to reduce crime.

Prompt

As you’ve learned in this module, there are three categories of sociological theories of criminal behavior. These theories all seek to explain criminal behavior as a response to social forces. Two of the sociological theories, strain theory and cultural deviance theory, were formulated in the early part of the 20th century, yet remain significant in the field of criminology today.

Using the provided template, identify 2 to 4 key points for each of the six theories listed (Durkheim’s Anomie Theory, Merton’s Strain Theory, Agnew’s General Strain Theory, Social Disorganization Theory, Differential Association Theory, and Culture Conflict Theory). Next, identify a policy or program that was created to reduce crime in response to a strain theory, and one created in response to a cultural deviance theory. Then, in 25 to 50 words for each, describe how that policy or program attempts to reduce crime.

Specifically, the following rubric criteria must be addressed:

  • Identify 2 to 4 key points for each of the six theories listed in the template.
  • Identify a policy or program that was created to reduce crime in response to a strain theory.
  • Describe how the identified policy or program in relation to a strain theory attempts to reduce crime.
  • Identify a policy or program that was created to reduce crime in response to a cultural deviance theory.
  • Describe how the identified policy or program in relation to a cultural deviance theory attempts to reduce crime.

What to Submit

This assignment must be completed using the Module Three Practice Activity Template Word Document. Any references should be cited in APA style. Consult the Shapiro Library APA Style Guide for more information on citations.

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 2-2 Discussion: Classical vs. Positivist

2-2 Discussion: Classical vs. Positivist

One of the central ideas from the classical school of thought is that people choose to commit crimes, and to prevent them from doing that, we need to make better laws that provide a greater sense of deterrence. The positivist school of thought suggests that there are scientific explanations that cause people to commit crimes. Both schools of thought have led to significant changes in criminal justice practices. Which school of thought do you believe has influenced criminal justice practices the most?

Take a position. Do you believe the classical school of thought or the positivist school of thought has had the most influence on criminal justice practices?

First, title your initial post either “The classical school of thought has influenced criminal justice practices the most” or “The positivist school of thought has influenced the criminal justice system the most.”

Then, using the information from resources in this module, make your case. What practices in the criminal justice system are evidence of the influence of your chosen school of thought? Consider the impact on the following:

  • laws or policies
  • law enforcement
  • court system and sentencing
  • corrections, rehabilitation, parole
  • reducing crime rates and recidivism

In your responses to your peers, consider how well they justified their positions, making use of available resources. Consider the following questions in your response post:

  • Did they support their position convincingly using appropriate resources?
  • Which of their points make the most sense to you, even if you made a case for the opposing viewpoint?

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 2-1 Module Two Assignment

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 2-1 Module Two Assignment

CJ 340 Module Two Assignment Guidelines and Rubric

Overview

In this assignment, you will choose and define a crime, describe the type and classification of offender who commits this type of crime, and describe how aspects of sociology can be applied to the offender and the crime committed.

Prompt

In Module One, you learned about types of crime, as well as types and classifications of offenders. In this module, you learned how aspects of sociology can be used to understand crime and explain what factors may lead to crime. You will now apply this knowledge to describe a crime, the offender, and how sociology may relate to the crime being committed. This application of knowledge will help you prepare for the submission of Project One in Module Five.

  • First, review the Project One Guidelines and Rubric.
  • Choose one crime from this list of crimes that are present in the Project One scenario:
    • Organized crime
    • Motor vehicle theft
    • Selling/distributing narcotics
    • Selling illegal weapons
    • Murder
    • Theft
    • Dog fighting
    • Burglary
    • Illegal gambling
  • Identify the crime type for the crime you chose.
    • What is the crime type as defined by the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS)?
  • Describe which classifications of offenders might commit this type of crime.
    • Which classification would the offender most likely match?
    • Why (or how) might more than one classification be a possibility?
  • Describe how this type of crime may be explained by aspects of sociology.
    • How might this type of crime be connected to sociological theories (e.g. routine activity theory, social disorganization theory, or structural strain theory)?

Specifically, the following rubric criteria must be addressed:

  • Identify the type of crime.
  • Describe which classifications of offenders might commit this type of crime.
  • Describe how this type of crime may be explained by aspects of sociology.

What to Submit

This assignment should be 200–300 words in length. Any references must be cited in APA style. See the Shapiro Library APA Style Guide for more information on citations.

CJ-340-T6891 Criminology 23EW6: 1-1 Discussion: What Is a Criminal?

People break laws every day and, in many cases, without thinking about it. Have you ever broken a law? Have you ever thrown an egg at a house? Have you ever done anything that would leave you subject to criminal prosecution?

For this first discussion, you will introduce yourself to your peers and discuss what makes a person a criminal.

Complete the following in your initial post:

In your first paragraph, introduce yourself to your classmates by answering the following:

  • Who are you, and what do you do?
  • Why are you interested in criminal justice?
  • Do you have any professional background related to criminology?

In your second paragraph, based on the resources in this module, explain what you believe to be the definition of a criminal. Consider the following:

  • Is anyone who breaks a law a criminal?
  • What is deviance?
  • What is the difference between deviant behavior and criminal behavior?

In each of your two peer responses, choose peers whose explanation is different from your own. Consider the differences in your responses. Was there anything they cited that you may not have considered? Always remember to be respectful when replying to peers, even if you do not agree with their stance or rationale.

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

PSY-310-H5687 Criminal Psychology 23EW5: 8-1 Discussion: Professional Application

Question

Review the course outcomes found on the syllabus and required resources for this week. Share one concept that you learned in this course that you plan to apply as you enter into the workforce. As you move into the field, what role will multiculturalism play in your thoughts and actions professionally?

When responding to your peers, discuss how you think the criminal psychology field will evolve as you emerge into the field. Do you agree or disagree with your classmates’ opinions? Explain.

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

Answer

Hi everyone,

I really enjoyed this class even though I found it a little difficult. I really want to thank our professor because it has been amazing having one that is so responsive and great at explaining our assignments. I do not work in the psychology field but I think the results of applying relevant psychological theories to criminal behavior in order to analyze motivation will be able to be applied in my daily life and any field I decide to go in. The ability to unbiasedly look at facts and relate them to psychological theories will help in everyday dealings with other people and will help you better understand them. As a professional it will be very important to be mindful of multiculturalism and know that there are many different cultural and ethnic groups within our society.

PSY-310-H5687 Criminal Psychology 23EW5: 7-1 Final Project: Executive Summary

Question

In this task, you will submit your final project assignment. You have completed drafts of the summary, crime assessment, and profile sections of the final project. You will finalize your revisions and implement the feedback provided. Upon submission, be sure to include all sections of the final assessment. This should include the conclusion and investigative use sections.

Submit your assignment here. Make sure you’ve included all the required elements by reviewing the guidelines and rubric.

Answer

Summary of the case

Aileen Wuornos is the subject of the case; she is a prominent serial killer who rose to popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was born on February 29, 1956, in Rochester, Michigan, and died from execution in 2002. One of the critical facts and demographic information about this serial murder case is that between 1989 and 1990 in Florida, along the Interstate 75 corridor, she was accountable for the deaths of seven men (Wuornos, 2017). Also, during that period, Wuornos was a prostitute, and the men she allegedly had contact with were middle-aged and looking for sex. Additionally, using a. 22-calibre pistol, she also shot the victims at close range. Finally, when attempted sexual assaults occurred, Wuornos claimed the homicides were committed in self-defence.

Initial hypothesis

According to the available information, the initial hypothesis on her possible motive shows that Aileen Wuornos was motivated to commit the crime by self-defence. As a sex worker, Wuornos probably dealt with customers in unsafe and possibly violent settings. It is conceivable that she used lethal force to defend herself from imagined threats (Wuornos, 2017). She may have taken drastic measures to ensure her survival since she thought her life was in immediate danger, as evidenced by her self-defence claims during the investigation. Wuornos’s first justification for the killings, self-defence, is insufficient to explain why he committed them (Pearson, 2007). She may have been more violent as a result of underlying psychological concerns. It is crucial to consider the probability that Wuornos endured severe trauma and abuse throughout her life, resulting in a warped awareness of risk and a distorted perception of self-preservation. These psychological variables might have increased her hostility and motivated her to go after people she deemed dangerous to her safety.

It is important to note that the subsequent homicides deviated from immediate self-defence, even though the reason for the crimes may initially appear to be founded in self-defence (Wuornos, 2017). This viewpoint shows that additional factors, such as psychological trauma and warped views, may have influenced Wuornos’s prolonged involvement in the killings. These factors most likely fueled a spiralling cycle of violence that went beyond acts of self-defence and into a pattern of serial killing. Moreover, Aileen Wuornos committed crimes categorized as serial killings because they characterize an extended time to occur and frequent cooling-off periods between each murder (Pearson, 2007). This term applies to Wuornos because she quickly targeted and killed seven men. The systematic structure of the killings and the predictable selection of victims point to a planned and intentional pattern of violence.

  1. Crime Assessment

Comparison of data and evidence of similar crimes

Aileen Wuornos and Robert William Fisher have infamous criminal histories, particularly in serial murder cases. While the nature of their crimes differs, examining their cases can reveal trends and motives frequently present in similar crimes. Between 1989 and 1990, Aileen Wuornos murdered several people in Florida and was found guilty of killing seven men who, according to her, had either assaulted or attempted to assault her (Wuornos, 2017). While working as a prostitute, Wuornos sought out her victims and enticed them to isolated areas where she shot them. Her case demonstrates a pattern of specifically chosen victims and a methodical style of crime commitment. As a result, a pattern of premeditation and a desire to assert control over her surroundings are suggested by the similarities between her method of operation and the intended demographics of her victims.

In contrast, a crime involving Robert William Fisher portrays some similarities and differences with Wuornos, even though they are serial murder cases. After his wife and two children were killed in Scottsdale, Arizona, 2001, the fugitive Fisher rose to prominence (FBI, 2010). Fisher does not seem to have murdered his family repeatedly; instead, he seems to have targeted them with a single, profoundly personal act of violence. The incident reveals a history of domestic abuse and unresolved conflict in the home. It is worth noting that the initial hypothesis suggests that Fisher’s crime was motivated by marital and financial issues, a desire to avoid taking care of personal duties, or perhaps even a mental illness.

Patterns

It is clear from comparing these cases that Wuornos and Fisher demonstrated control- and situation-related tendencies. Wuornos’ selection of victims and her justification of each act as self-defence point to her wish to take charge of her own life by eliminating ostensible threats. Conversely, Fisher’s conduct can be seen as a desperate attempt to regain control of his life and escape his parental obligations (FBI, 2010). Both cases show the harmful results of people trying to exert power violently, despite the differences in their acts’ goals and effects.

Motivations

Inferences can be reached about these individuals’ motivations based on the evidence and comparisons to these similar crimes. Both cases display psychological distress related to past trauma or present challenges. Fisher’s involvement in domestic violence events and Wuornos’ history of murder point to underlying problems that may have influenced their behaviour. The motivation behind their acts, whether a need for control or an attempt to calm their internal turmoil, can be considered maladaptive coping mechanisms

  1. Profile

Demographic summary

Aileen Wuornos was a female serial murderer who operated in Florida in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Wuornos was born on February 29, 1956, in Rochester, Michigan. She grew up in a chaotic and dysfunctional environment where she struggled to get along with her family because her parents divorced when she was a young girl (Wuornos, 2017). The turbulent childhood Wuornos led and these early encounters probably shaped her decision to become a criminal. Besides, her primary target for crimes were men who, as a hitchhiker, she would pick up as her prey, have sex with them, and then shoot them. It is worth noting that Wuornos’s murder crimes are majorly motivated by monetary gain, self-defence, and a pervasive loathing of men.

Additionally, Wuornos only attended a few formal schools, limiting her education. From an early age, she left high school and got involved in several illicit pursuits, including sex work. Due to her upbringing, she got into crime due to unstable chances and a chaotic lifestyle. It is important to remember that Aileen Wuornos dealt with severe personal struggles. Ideally, she has a history of tumultuous relationships and substance misuse issues. She probably had mental health problems and unpredictable conduct due to her rough background and horrible experiences working in sex.

After being apprehended in 1991 and later found guilty of killing seven individuals, Wuornos’ atrocities stopped. She became a divisive figure after her trial, with some calling for her execution and others pleading for mercy, given her complicated past (Pearson, 2007). Her trial garnered significant media coverage. Wuornos finally received a death penalty verdict in the end, and on October 9, 2002, he was put to death by lethal injection.

Impact of biological factors

Biological factors in Wuornos’ case might have influenced her behaviour and helped her develop into a serial killer. A person’s conduct can be influenced by genetics, and certain people may be predisposed to committing aggressive or illegal behaviours. Even though it is crucial to emphasize that biology cannot explain criminal behaviour independently, certain parts of her biology may have impacted her behaviour. Her genetic makeup is one possible biological component that might have affected Wuornos. Research has demonstrated that impulsivity and aggression are only two examples of the many behavioural traits that can be influenced by genetic variables (Hagan, 2018). Wuornos likely had some hereditary traits that affected her behaviour. Some people may have a natural propensity to participate in aggressive or criminal activities.

The possible effects of neurological disorders or brain abnormalities must also be considered a critical biological aspect. It is well established that brain abnormalities can impact someone’s ability to manage emotions, impulses, and decision-making. These elements may affect a person’s capacity for social situation processing and appropriate social response. Neurological or brain disorders could have impacted Wuornos’ judgment, emotional stability, and inclination for violent behaviour (Hagan, 2018). In addition, hormonal abnormalities may also influence behaviour. For instance, violent and impulsive conduct has been linked to hormonal imbalances in serotonin or dopamine (Wuornos, 2017). These hormonal imbalances and others could have affected Wuornos’ predisposition for violence and her inability to restrain her impulses.

Impact of developmental factors

Developmental factors most likely substantially influenced her conduct and the course of her life. Her problematic background, marked by a turbulent home environment, may have significantly impacted how she behaved and felt about herself. Feelings of abandonment, neglect, and a lack of positive role models may have been caused by the absence of solid familial support and the prevalence of dysfunction, which can significantly impact a person’s development (Pearson, 2007). Wuornos was probably exposed to various negative experiences and potentially damaging influences due to her early involvement in illicit activities, such as performing sex work, from a young age. These events may have further affected her worldview, self-perception, and interpersonal connections, potentially resulting in a cycle of destructive actions.

Additionally, accumulating traumatic events, such as physical and sexual abuse, can profoundly influence a person’s development. Such events may result in the emergence of several psychiatric conditions, such as complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Hagan, 2018). One’s capacity to establish healthy relationships, manage stress, and control emotions may be impacted by these elements, potentially raising the chance of acting violently or criminally.

Impact of environmental factors

The environment where Wuornos resided and worked as a prostitute most certainly impacted how she behaved. In her line of work, she was constantly exposed to risk, aggression, and exploitation, which could have made her feel helpless and forced her to defend herself. Her susceptibility may have been made worse by the temporary nature of her lifestyle and the absence of social support and financial security, which may have fueled her desperation and violence (Wuornos, 2017). Wuornos may have been driven to commit crimes by a combination of her past, the environment in which she lived, and the risks involved in her line of work.

Application of theories

Various theories can offer insights from various angles when examining the motivation behind Aileen Wuornos’ behaviour. According to theories on genetic predisposition or neurobiological causes, Wuornos may have had innate characteristics or abnormalities in her brain that contributed to her aggressive behaviour (Hagan, 2018). Psychological theories like psychodynamic or personality theory may investigate underlying problems like unresolved childhood trauma, personality disorders, or a skewed self-perception that influenced her behaviour. Social theories could highlight the role of social and environmental factors on her conduct by looking at the impact of her childhood, exposure to violence, and experiences in the sex business (Hagan, 2018). Finally, theories of criminal violence that focus on routine behaviour or rational decision-making may highlight the contextual elements, opportunity structures, and logical thought processes that influenced Wuornos’ decision to target her male victims. One can understand Wuornos’ complex motivations more deeply by looking at these many theoretical vantage points.

  • Conclusion and Investigative Use

Global Summary

Aileen Wuornos, a female serial murderer, rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s after killing seven men in Florida. Wuornos initially justified his actions by claiming self-defence. He then targeted middle-aged males looking for sex. Her following homicides, too, showed a departure from overt acts of self-defence, pointing to more subtle psychological causes at play (Rosenbaum, 2021). Her lengthy involvement in the killings was probably fuelled by psychological trauma and a misguided sense of self-preservation. Due to their systematic structure and predicted victim selection, Wuornos’ acts were categorized as serial homicides. The demographic profile of Wuornos suggests a chaotic upbringing, involvement in sex work, and a prevalent dislike of men. Biological causes such as hereditary susceptibility and probable neurological diseases could have affected her behaviour. Uncertainty in the family setting and exposure to traumatic experiences are two developmental elements that probably had a big impact. She might have been more violent due to environmental variables, such as the dangers and exploitation of her sex business.

Future Behaviour and Intervention Strategies

Predictive analysis suggests that Wuornos might continue to exhibit violent behaviour without intervention. Intervention strategies should address underlying psychological issues, provide trauma-informed care, and facilitate reintegration into society (Rosenbaum, 2021). Therapeutic interventions, counselling, and support programs can help mitigate future criminal behaviour by addressing the root causes of her violent tendencies and promoting positive behavioural change.

Limitations

The gaps in the data prevent a complete comprehension of Wuornos’ early trauma and information concerning her psychological assessment. Dependent on the sources and their integrity, the data under evaluation must be valid and reliable.

Capture, understanding, and prosecution

The information collected contributed to capturing, understanding, and prosecuting Wuornos by providing insights into her motivations, behavioural patterns, and demographic background. It helped build a case against her and informed decisions regarding her trial, conviction, and subsequent punishment.

 

 

References

FBI. (2010). Robert William Fisher. FBI. https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/robert-william-fisher

Hagan, F. E. (2018). Introduction to criminology: Theories, methods, and criminal behaviour. Sage Publications.

Pearson, K. (2007). The trouble with Aileen Wuornos, feminism’s “first serial killer.” Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies, 4(3): 256–275. doi:10.1080/14791420701472791.

Rosenbaum, J. (2021, August 26). Aileen Wuornos: The selling of a serial killer. Chicago Reader. https://chicagoreader.com/film/aileen-wuornos-the-selling-of-a-serial-killer/

Wuornos, A. (2017). Biography. https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/aileen-wuornos.

 

PSY-310-H5687 Criminal Psychology 23EW5: 6-2 Journal: Criminal Prosecution

Question

In this assignment, you will reflect upon the role and limitations of psychological theories in the prosecution of criminals.

What are the limitations of psychological theories in the prosecution of criminals? Does a person’s age impact their motivation or the chances of continuing criminal behavior? Think about your final project assignment. What limitations did you experience as you were developing your report? Can these limitations be addressed or rectified? Explain.

Submit your assignment here. Make sure you’ve included all the required elements by reviewing the guidelines and rubric.

Answer

Limitations of utilizing psychological theories in the prosecution of criminals

There are various limitations to using psychological theories in criminal prosecution. Firstly, subjective evaluations of a person’s mental state, motivations, and intentions are frequently used in psychological theories. This subjectivity creates the possibility for biases and errors because different psychologists may evaluate the same behavior or evidence differently. This subjectivity may compromise the objectivity necessary for the legal process. Second, psychological theories usually address difficult-to-measure or accurately quantify abstract and complex notions (Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M., 2016). This lack of specificity makes it challenging to apply psychological theories in a legal setting where objective proof and explicit norms are required. Psychological theories might be interpreted differently and applied inconsistently due to their ambiguous character.

The limitations of individuals are another. Observed patterns and general principles in human behavior are the foundation for psychological theories. Individual differences in psychological makeup, life experiences, and environment can, however, limit the applicability of ideas to particular situations. While a theory might be able to explain a person’s conduct, it might not completely explain another person’s motivations or behaviors. This variance makes applying psychological theories universally to all criminal cases difficult. Critical limits also include ethical ones. Psychological theories in criminal prosecution raise concerns about privacy rights and the stigmatization of mental illness. When giving expert testimony, psychologists must abide by ethical standards, yet, these standards may not always address the particular issues that arise in criminal cases (Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M., 2016). It might be challenging to mix sustaining moral principles with efficiently applying psychological ideas.

Addressing Limitations

Addressing and correcting the limitations of using psychological theories in prosecuting offenders require the intervention of certain approaches, even though some may be difficult to overcome. First, efforts can be undertaken to improve objectivity in applying psychological theories. This step might entail the creation of more precise standards for evaluating and interpreting psychological data (Moffitt, 2019). It is essential to ensure that multiple expert viewpoints are considered to lessen individual biases and subjective interpretations. Another strategy to deal with restrictions is interdisciplinary cooperation between psychologists and legal experts.

A more complete and nuanced understanding of criminal behavior can be created by merging the knowledge from both domains. Professionals in the legal field can offer context and advice, while psychologists can shed light on the psychological aspects that may underlie criminal behavior (Moffitt, 2019). This partnership may aid in bridging the gap between psychological theories and legal needs. The growth and improvement of current theories in psychology might also result from continuing study and development. Improving the accuracy, precision, and application of psychological theories to criminal cases can assist in solving limits. Their usefulness in prosecuting criminals can be increased by consistently enhancing and developing psychological theories founded on scientific facts.

Motivational Factors

            Age

Although it is crucial to understand that motivation is a complicated construct influenced by many elements, age can impact a person’s drive level. Older people could be motivated by other motives like financial security or personal situations, whereas younger people might be more prone to impulsive conduct and more vulnerable to peer pressure (Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M., 2016). An individual’s motives may change with age due to priorities, obligations, and social context changes.

            Continued Criminal Behaviour

Age is a key determinant regarding the likelihood of continuing criminal behavior. According to research, criminal activity peaks throughout youth and the first few years of adulthood and diminishes as people age (Moffitt, 2019). This decline is brought on by elements like growing up, taking on more responsibility, and social environment changes. It is important to remember that there are exceptions to this rule and that not all people follow this trajectory. Due to a variety of reasons, including enduring environmental impacts, inherent personality traits, or underlying mental health conditions, some people may continue to engage in criminal behavior regardless of their age.

 

 

References

Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M. (2016). Criminal behavior (11th Edition). Pearson Education (US). https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9780134164366

Moffitt, T. E. (2019). Adolescence-limited and life-course-persistent antisocial behavior: A developmental taxonomy. Psychological Review, 100, 674–701

 

PSY-310-H5687 Criminal Psychology 23EW5: 6-1 Discussion: Predicting and Intervening

Question

After viewing the video Anne Milgram: Why Smart Statistics Are the Key to Fighting Crime, respond to the following question: In your opinion, should decisions be made based upon intuition and experience or based purely on data?

In your response, consider how data and analytics are being used to improve the criminal justice system. In addition, how is data used to predict interventions that may be needed?

When responding to your peers, continue to discuss the roles and limitations of data. What are the pros and cons of data-based decision-making versus intuition-based decision-making? Explain.

To complete this assignment, review the Discussion Rubric.

Answer

In my opinion, decisions should be made based upon intuition, experience and on datarather than solely on one or the other. Intuition and experience can influence the result of punishment and repercussions; however, data analytics can demonstrate the severity of the offense and the perpetrator. According to the TED talk by Anne Milgram, the use of instincts and experience in the criminal justice system has failed but I believe with the addition of data analytics, it can help improve the system significantly. Although, I do believe that intuition, experience, and data analytics can be flawed at times. Intuition can lead people astray because it’s not very good at picking up flaws. As for data, it can be accurate, but it can be flawed too. Overall, using all three instead of one or the other is the best way to get the better outcome to improve the US criminal justice system decision-making process.

Reference

Milgram, A. (n.d.). Why smart statistics are the key to fighting crime. Anne Milgram: Why smart statistics are the key to fighting crime | TED Talk. https://www.ted.com/talks/anne_milgram_why_smart_statistics_are_the_key_to_fighting _crime?subtitle=en

PSY-310-H5687 Criminal Psychology 23EW5:5-2 Final Project Milestone Two

Question

For this assignment, you will submit a draft of the profile section of the final project assessment.

To complete this assignment, review the following documents:

Answer

III. Profile

Demographic summary

Aileen Wuornos was a female serial murderer who operated in Florida in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Wuornos was born on February 29, 1956, in Rochester, Michigan. She grew up in a chaotic and dysfunctional environment where she struggled to get along with her family because her parents divorced when she was a young girl (Wuornos, 2017). The turbulent childhood Wuornos led, and these early encounters probably shaped her decision to become a criminal. Besides, her primary target for crimes were men who, as a hitchhiker, she would pick up as her prey, have sex with them, and then shoot them. It is worth noting that Wuornos’s murder crimes are majorly motivated by monetary gain, self-defence, and a pervasive loathing of men.

Additionally, Wuornos only attended a few formal schools, limiting her education. From an early age, she left high school and got involved in several illicit pursuits, including sex work. Due to her upbringing, it is possible that she fell into crime due to unstable chances and a chaotic lifestyle. It is important to remember that Aileen Wuornos dealt with severe personal struggles. Ideally, she has a history of tumultuous relationships and substance misuse issues. She probably had mental health problems and unpredictable conduct due to her rough background and horrible experiences working in sex.

After being apprehended in 1991 and later found guilty of killing seven individuals, Wuornos’ atrocities stopped. She became a divisive figure after her trial, with some calling for her execution and others pleading for mercy, given her complicated past (Pearson, 2007). Her trial garnered significant media coverage. Wuornos finally received a death penalty verdict in the end, and on October 9, 2002, he was put to death by lethal injection.

Impact of biological factors

Biological factors in Wuornos’ case might have influenced her behaviour and helped her develop into a serial killer. A person’s conduct can be influenced by genetics, and certain people may be predisposed to committing aggressive or illegal behaviours. Even though it is crucial to emphasize that biology cannot explain criminal behaviour independently, certain parts of her biology may have impacted her behaviour. Her genetic makeup is one possible biological component that might have affected Wuornos. Research has demonstrated that impulsivity and aggression are only two examples of the many behavioural traits that can be influenced by genetic variables (Hagan, 2018). Wuornos likely had some hereditary traits that affected her behaviour. Some people may have a natural propensity to participate in aggressive or criminal activities.

The possible effects of neurological disorders or brain abnormalities must also be considered a critical biological aspect. It is well established that brain abnormalities can impact someone’s ability to manage emotions, impulses, and decision-making. These elements may affect a person’s capacity for social situation processing and appropriate social response. Neurological or brain disorders could have impacted Wuornos’ judgment, emotional stability, and inclination for violent behaviour (Hagan, 2018). In addition, hormonal abnormalities may also influence behaviour. For instance, violent and impulsive conduct has been linked to hormonal imbalances in serotonin or dopamine (Wuornos, 2017). These hormonal imbalances and others could have affected Wuornos’ predisposition for violence and her inability to restrain her impulses.

Impact of developmental factors

Developmental factors most likely substantially influenced her conduct and the course of her life. Her problematic background, marked by a turbulent home environment, may have significantly impacted how she behaved and felt about herself. Feelings of abandonment, neglect, and a lack of positive role models may have been caused by the absence of solid familial support and the prevalence of dysfunction, which can significantly impact a person’s development (Pearson, 2007). Wuornos was probably exposed to various negative experiences and potentially damaging influences due to her early involvement in illicit activities, such as performing sex work, from a young age. These events may have further affected her worldview, self-perception, and interpersonal connections, potentially resulting in a cycle of destructive actions.

Additionally, accumulating traumatic events, such as physical and sexual abuse, can profoundly influence a person’s development. Such events may result in the emergence of several psychiatric conditions, such as complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Hagan, 2018). One’s capacity to establish healthy relationships, manage stress, and control emotions may be impacted by these elements, potentially raising the chance of acting violently or criminally.

Impact of environmental factors

The environment where Wuornos resided and worked as a prostitute most certainly impacted how she behaved. In her line of work, she was constantly exposed to risk, aggression, and exploitation, which could have made her feel helpless and forced her to defend herself. Her susceptibility may have been made worse by the temporary nature of her lifestyle and the absence of social support and financial security, which may have fueled her desperation and violence (Wuornos, 2017). Wuornos may have been driven to commit crimes by a combination of her past, the environment in which she lived, and the risks involved in her line of work.

Application of theories

Various theories can offer insights from various angles when examining the motivation behind Aileen Wuornos’ behaviour. According to theories on genetic predisposition or neurobiological causes, Wuornos may have had innate characteristics or abnormalities in her brain that contributed to her aggressive behaviour (Hagan, 2018). Psychological theories like psychodynamic or personality theory may investigate underlying problems like unresolved childhood trauma, personality disorders, or a skewed self-perception that influenced her behaviour. Social theories could highlight the role of social and environmental factors on her conduct by looking at the impact of her childhood, exposure to violence, and experiences in the sex business (Hagan, 2018). Finally, theories of criminal violence that focus on routine behaviour or rational decision-making may highlight the contextual elements, opportunity structures, and logical thought processes that influenced Wuornos’ decision to target her male victims. One can understand Wuornos’ complex motivations more deeply by looking at these many theoretical vantage points.

 

 

References

Hagan, F. E. (2018). Introduction to criminology: Theories, methods, and criminal behaviour. Sage Publications.

Pearson, K. (2007). The trouble with Aileen Wuornos, feminism’s “first serial killer.” Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies, 4(3): 256–275. doi:10.1080/14791420701472791.

Wuornos, A. (2017). Biography. https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/aileen-wuornos.