JOSE MARIA COLLEGE

FOUNDATION, INC.
Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway, Sasa, Davao City

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Subject

Crim 1 (Introduction to Criminology)

Submitted by:

Group 5

1.Jamero, Earl Reformado

2.Lerin, Justine Jan A.
3.Lumaya, Lorenzo Jr. Quibo
4.Mamites, David Faith P.
5.Manguiob, Keannu A.
6.Tay, James Benedict S.

Submitted to:
Maverick P. Garcia, RCrim

December 2023

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 Table of Contents

Cover page 1

Table of Contents 2

Background of the Study 3-4

a) Biological Theories
b) Psychological Theories
c) Sociological Theories

Statement of the Problem 5-6

Discussion 7-10
a) Biological Theories
b) Psychological Theories
c) Sociological Theories
d) Integration of theories
e) Policy Implications
f) Ongoing Research and Evolution

Conclusion 11-13

Recommendations 14-17
a) Biological Factors
b) Psychological Factors
c) Sociological Factors
d) Holistic Approach

References 18

Documentation 19

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 Three Theories of Criminal Behavior

I. Background of the Study

The study of criminal behavior is a multidisciplinary field that uses various

theories to explain why individuals engage in crime. Three prominent theories

that help to understand criminal behavior are:

Biological theories of criminal behavior posit that biological factors such as

genetics, neurobiology, and physiological characteristics influence an individual

and their propensity to engage in criminal activity. Early proponents of these

theories, such as Cesare Lombroso, argued that certain physical characteristics

could indicate a criminal. However, current biological theories are more nuanced,

considering a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors

that can influence criminal behavior. Key concepts: genetic predisposition, brain

structure and function, neurotransmitter imbalances, and the interaction of nature

and nurture. Psychological Theories:

Psychological theories examine how individual differences in personality,

thinking, and mental health affect criminal behavior. Psycho dynamic theories,

such as those developed by Sigmund Freud, emphasize the role of the

unconscious, while behavioral theories focus on learned behavior and

reinforcement. Cognitive theories delve into the thought processes that influence

a criminal's decision-making. Key concepts: personality disorders, mental health

problems, conduct disorders, cognitive distortions, and the influence of childhood

experiences on behavior. Sociological theories:

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Sociological theories of criminal behavior examine how social structures,

institutions, and environmental factors influence crime. These theories

emphasize the importance of social influences, including economic inequality,

cultural norms, and socialization processes. Classic sociological perspectives

such as strain theory (Robert K. Merton) and social learning theory (Edwin H.

Sutherland) provide insights into how social conditions shape criminal behavior.

Key Concepts: Social institutions, tension and anomie, socialization, social

control, stigma theory, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on crime rates.

Criminal justice professionals, decision-makers, and intervention programs use

these theories to develop crime prevention, rehabilitation, and public policy

strategies. For example, understanding the role of socioeconomic factors in

criminal behavior can inform policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality,

while insights from psychological theories can guide the development of

therapeutic interventions for offenders.

An integrated approach to the study of criminal behavior that considers

biological, psychological, and sociological factors provides a more

comprehensive understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of crime.

Researchers and practitioners are constantly refining and expanding these

theories as new evidence and insights emerge from ongoing research in the field

of criminology.

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 Statement Of the Problem

The problem of criminal behavior is complex and multifaceted, encompassing

various social, psychological, and environmental factors.

Biological Theory:

Problem Statement: The biological theory of criminal behavior posits that certain

biological factors, such as genetics, brain structure, and physiological

abnormalities, contribute to criminal tendencies. However, the problem arises in

determining the extent to which these biological factors influence criminal

behavior compared to environmental and social factors. Additionally, there's a

challenge in applying this theory universally, as not all individuals with similar

biological traits exhibit criminal behavior, raising questions about the theory's

predictive accuracy and its potential for stigmatization based on biological traits.

Psychological Theory (Psycho dynamic, Behavioral, Cognitive):

Problem Statement: Psychological theories delve into the role of individual

psychological processes, including personality traits, cognitive patterns, early

childhood experiences, and learned behaviors in shaping criminal behavior.

However, pinpointing a definitive set of psychological factors that universally lead

to criminal behavior remains a challenge. There are significant variations in

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human behavior, making it difficult to establish a direct cause-and-effect

relationship between specific psychological factors and criminality. Moreover, the

debate continues regarding the balance between internal psychological factors

and external environmental influences in determining criminal behavior.

Sociological Theory (Strain Theory, Social Learning Theory, Labeling Theory):

Problem Statement: Sociological theories emphasize the impact of social

structures, institutions, and interactions on criminal behavior. However, while

these theories highlight the influence of societal factors such as poverty,

inequality, peer associations, and labeling on criminality, they sometimes

overlook individual agency and variations in personal motivations for criminal

acts. Additionally, these theories may struggle to account for why individuals

within similar social contexts respond differently to criminal opportunities or social

pressures.

Each theory offers valuable insights into understanding criminal behavior, but

they also face challenges in providing a comprehensive explanation due to the

intricate interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors

influencing human actions. Integrating these theories and considering their

limitations is essential in developing holistic approaches to address and prevent

criminal behavior effectively.

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 Discussion

The study of criminal behavior is indeed a complex and multifaceted field that

draws on various theories to explain why individuals engage in criminal activities.

Let's delve deeper into the three prominent theories such as biological,

psychological, and sociological.

Biological Theories:

Biological theories propose that certain biological factors contribute to criminal

behavior. While early theories, like Lombroso's, focused on physical traits,

contemporary perspectives consider a more nuanced interplay of genetic,

neurobiological, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition, variations in

brain structure and function, neurotransmitter imbalances, and the interplay of

nature and nurture are key concepts in this framework. The understanding that a

combination of these factors influences criminal behavior allows for a more

sophisticated approach to intervention and prevention.

Psychological Theories:

Psychological theories explore how individual differences in personality,

cognition, and mental health can impact criminal behavior. Psychodynamic

theories, such as Freud's, highlight unconscious influences, while behavioral

theories emphasize learned behaviors and reinforcement. Cognitive theories

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delve into the thought processes that influence criminal decision-making.

Concepts like personality disorders, mental health problems, cognitive

distortions, and the impact of childhood experiences are crucial in understanding

the psychological aspects of criminal behavior. This perspective enables the

development of targeted therapeutic interventions for offenders.

Sociological Theories:

Sociological theories shift the focus to social structures, institutions, and

environmental factors that influence criminal behavior. Strain theory, for example,

suggests that societal pressure and inequality can lead to criminal activity, while

social learning theory posits that individuals learn criminal behavior through

interaction with others. Social institutions, tension and anomie, socialization,

social control, stigma theory, and the impact of socioeconomic factors are key

concepts in this framework. Understanding these societal influences aids in the

development of broader crime prevention and intervention strategies, including

addressing economic inequality and cultural norms.

Integration of Theories:

An integrated approach that considers biological, psychological, and sociological

factors provides a more comprehensive understanding of criminal behavior.

Recognizing that these factors often interact and influence each other can guide

the development of more effective crime prevention, rehabilitation, and public

policy strategies. Criminal justice professionals can use insights from these

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theories to inform their decision-making processes, creating a more holistic and

nuanced approach to addressing crime in society.

Policy Implications:

The application of these theories extends to the development of policies aimed at

crime prevention and rehabilitation. For instance, policies addressing

socioeconomic factors can contribute to reducing crime rates by tackling root

causes. Therapeutic interventions based on psychological insights can be

incorporated into rehabilitation programs. Additionally, understanding the

interplay of genetic and environmental factors can guide more targeted

approaches to crime prevention.

Ongoing Research and Evolution:

It's crucial to note that the field of criminology is dynamic, with researchers and

practitioners continuously refining and expanding these theories as new evidence

emerges. Ongoing research contributes to a deeper understanding of criminal

behavior, enabling the development of more effective and nuanced strategies to

address the complexities of crime in society.

The study of criminal behavior encompasses three main theories such as

biological, psychological, and sociological. Biological theories emphasize the

interplay of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors in influencing

criminal behavior, moving beyond early notions focused solely on physical traits.

Psychological theories explore the impact of individual differences in personality,

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cognition, and mental health on criminal conduct, considering psycho dynamic,

behavioral, and cognitive perspectives. Sociological theories shift the focus to

societal structures, institutions, and environmental factors, addressing concepts

like strain theory and social learning theory.

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 Conclusion

Lerin, Justine Jan

From biological theory, I learned about genetic and physiological influences

on crime. Psychological theory highlighted individual mental processes, while

sociological theory emphasized societal factors. Integrating these perspectives

offers a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of criminal

behavior, encompassing biological, psychological, and social dimensions.

Manguiob, Keannu

In conclusion, these theories highlight the multifaceted nature of criminal

behavior, emphasizing the interplay between biological, psychological, and

sociological factors. They suggest that criminal behavior is often a result of a

complex interaction between an individual's biological makeup, psychological

traits, and the influence of their social environment. Understanding these theories

can assist in developing more comprehensive approaches to crime prevention

and rehabilitation.

Mamites, David Faith

The biological theory of criminal behavior emphasizes genetics, brain

structure, and physiological abnormalities as key factors in shaping criminal

tendencies, it faces a significant challenge in determining the exact impact of

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these biological factors when considered alongside environmental and social

elements. This is because individuals with similar biological traits may not always

display criminal behavior, casting doubt on the theory's universal application.

This uncertainty raises questions about its reliability in accurately predicting

criminal behavior and the potential for individuals to be unfairly stigmatized based

on their inherent biological characteristics. Therefore, while the biological

perspective provides valuable insights into understanding criminality, it is

essential to consider the intricate interplay of multiple factors at play.

Jamero, Earl

In exploring the consensus, conflict, and interactionist views on crime and

criminal justice, I've learned that perspectives vary widely. The consensus view

emphasizes shared values, the conflict view underscores societal inequality, and

the interactionist view highlights the role of social interactions and labeling in

shaping criminal behavior. Each perspective offers unique insights into the

complexities of crime and justice in society.

Tay, James Benedict

The combination of these three viewpoints enables a more thorough

understanding of criminal conduct by recognizing the intricate interplay of

biological, psychological, and societal elements. It is critical to note that these

ideas are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary, and contribute to a

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comprehensive approach to criminology. As continuous research refines and

expands these theories, the discipline evolves, allowing researchers and

practitioners to adjust crime prevention and intervention tactics based on new

facts and insights. Finally, an integrated strategy improves our ability to confront

crime's issues and work toward safer and more just society.

Lumaya, Lorenzo Quibo

There are what are called in criminology the Three Theories of Criminal

Behaviour, which are called psychological, sociological, and biological. This kind

of disease can cause crimes because we never know what they will do next. This

type of behavior doesn't choose who it is, so there are usually people they

victimize, which is why we who study criminology study this type of behavior to

prevent other people from this type of criminal that hurts other people.

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 Recommendation

Reducing or preventing violence is a difficult endeavor that calls for a

multidisciplinary strategy that takes sociological, psychological, and biological

aspects into account. These are some suggestions covering these areas.

Biological Factors

1. Early Intervention Programs:

- Support early childhood interventions that focus on at-risk individuals.

- Identify and provide support for children with genetic predispositions to

aggression or antisocial behavior.

2. Genetic Counseling and Education:

- Offer genetic counseling to families with a history of criminal behavior.

- Promote public education to enhance understanding and destigmatize genetic

factors related to criminal tendencies.

3. Mental Health Support:

- Ensure access to mental health resources for individuals with physiological

abnormalities.

- Implement mental health awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and

encourage seeking help.

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Psychological Factors

1. Comprehensive Mental Health Services:

- Develop and expand mental health services, including counseling and therapy,

within communities.

- Integrate mental health education into school curricula to foster emotional well-

being.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Programs:

- Implement cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) programs in correctional facilities

and communities.

- Introduce CBT in schools to address behavioral issues early on.

3. Early Childhood Education and Support:

- Enhance support for early childhood education to address psychological factors

during formative years.

- Provide parenting programs to equip parents with tools for nurturing positive

psychological development.

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Sociological Factors

1. Community-Based Programs:

- Invest in community programs that address underlying social issues like

poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources.

- Develop mentorship programs to provide positive role models for at-risk youth.

2. Educational Reforms:

- Advocate for educational reforms that address disparities and provide equal

opportunities for all students.

- Incorporate social skills and conflict resolution training in school curricula.

3. Criminal Justice Reform:

- Implement reforms in the criminal justice system to focus on rehabilitation rather

than strict punitive measures.

- Address systemic issues such as racial and socioeconomic inequalities within

the justice system.

4. Social Support Systems:

- Strengthen social support systems, including affordable housing, healthcare,

and childcare services.

- Establish community centers that offer resources and support for families and

individuals facing challenges

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Holistic Approaches

1. Integrated Intervention Models:

- Develop models that integrate biological, psychological, and sociological

interventions.

- Establish interdisciplinary teams to address individual cases comprehensively.

2. Public Awareness Campaigns:

- Launch campaigns to raise public awareness about the complex nature of

criminal behavior.

- Encourage community dialogue to reduce stigma associated with mental health

and criminality.

3. Research and Evaluation:

- Support ongoing research to understand the evolving nature of criminal

behavior.

- Regularly evaluate intervention programs to assess their effectiveness and

make necessary adjustments.

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REFERENCES

Statement of the problem

https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/sociology/criminal-justice/community/criminal-
behavior-theories

Background of the study

https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/sociology/criminal-justice/community/criminal-
behavior-theories

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Documentation

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