Psychology of Criminal Behaviour & Criminology
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Overview
An online course in the Psychology of Criminal Behavior and Criminology provides a comprehensive exploration of the theoretical frameworks, research methodologies, and practical applications within the field. Participants delve into biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives to understand the root causes of criminal behavior, examining key theories such as differential association, strain theory, and social learning. The course covers topics such as the role of genetics, psychopathy, environmental criminology, and the impact of societal factors on criminal conduct. Additionally, students explore the criminal justice system, criminal profiling, and the application of psychological principles in crime prevention and intervention. Through a blend of multimedia resources, case studies, and interactive discussions, participants gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding criminal behavior and the strategies employed in criminological research and analysis.
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Will be downloadable when all lectures have been completed.
Curriculum
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Description
The psychology of criminal behavior and criminology are fields that seek to understand and explain why individuals engage in criminal activities. These disciplines draw on a variety of theories and research methods to explore the causes, correlates, and consequences of criminal behavior. Here are some key concepts and perspectives within the psychology of criminal behavior and criminology:
1. **Biological Theories:**
- **Lombroso's Theory:** Cesare Lombroso proposed that criminals could be identified by physical characteristics, suggesting a biological basis for criminal behavior.
- **Genetic Factors:** Some research explores the role of genetics in criminality, examining the potential heritability of certain traits associated with criminal behavior.
2. **Psychological Theories:**
- **Psychodynamic Theories:** Freudian concepts, such as the id, ego, and superego, have been applied to explain criminal behavior.
- **Behavioral Theories:** Behavioral psychologists focus on how reinforcement, punishment, and observational learning influence criminal conduct.
3. **Social Learning Theories:**
- **Differential Association Theory:** Developed by Edwin Sutherland, this theory suggests that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others and is influenced by the frequency, duration, and intensity of these interactions.
- **Social Control Theory:** This perspective examines the mechanisms that societies use to control and regulate individuals, emphasizing the importance of social bonds and institutions in preventing criminal behavior.
4. **Strain Theories:**
- **Strain Theory:** Robert Merton proposed that individuals turn to crime when they experience a disjunction between societal goals and the means available to achieve them.
- **General Strain Theory:** Agnew expanded on strain theory, considering various types of strain, including the failure to achieve positively valued goals and the experience of negative stimuli.
5. **Routine Activity Theory:**
- Developed by Marcus Felson and Lawrence Cohen, this theory posits that crime occurs when three elements converge: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian.
6. **Labeling Theory:**
- This theory suggests that individuals labeled as deviant or criminal are more likely to engage in further criminal behavior due to societal reactions and stigmatization.
7. **Biosocial Theories:**
- Integrating biological and social factors, biosocial theories explore the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental influences on criminal behavior.
8. **Environmental Criminology:**
- Focuses on the role of the physical and social environment in shaping criminal behavior, including the design of urban spaces and the availability of opportunities for crime.
9. **Psychopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder:**
- Psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder are personality disorders associated with an increased risk of criminal behavior. Psychopathy is characterized by a lack of empathy and remorse.
10. **Criminal Profiling:**
- Involves the analysis of crime scenes and offender behavior to create a profile that can help law enforcement in identifying and apprehending criminals.
Requirements
No priopr knowledge or experience required
Career path
- Law Enforcement
- Forensic Psychology
- Research and Academia
- Criminal Justice Policy and Administration
- Advocacy and Counseling
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This course is advertised on reed.co.uk by the Course Provider, whose terms and conditions apply. Purchases are made directly from the Course Provider, and as such, content and materials are supplied by the Course Provider directly. Reed is acting as agent and not reseller in relation to this course. Reed's only responsibility is to facilitate your payment for the course. It is your responsibility to review and agree to the Course Provider's terms and conditions and satisfy yourself as to the suitability of the course you intend to purchase. Reed will not have any responsibility for the content of the course and/or associated materials.
