Psychodynamic explanations

• Who initially did not consider criminal behavior in his theories?

  Freud
• What principle do psychodynamic explanations of criminal behavior adhere to?

  The roots of criminal behavior are formed in childhood
• What does Blackburn (1993) argue about the superego and criminal behavior?

  If the superego is deficient, criminal behavior will occur due to uncontrolled id impulses
• What are the three types of inadequate superego described by Blackburn?

  • Weak superego: Impaired ability to feel guilt due to issues between ages 4-6
  • Deviant superego: Adoption of deviant behaviors from a deviant same-sex parent
  • Harsh superego: Excessive guilt and anxiety may lead to criminal acts for punishment
• What is displacement in the context of psychodynamic explanations?

  It is a defense mechanism where strong emotions are expressed onto a neutral person or object
• Who proposed the maternal deprivation hypothesis?

  Bowlby
• What does Bowlby argue is necessary for forming meaningful relationships in adulthood?

  A warm and continuous relationship with a mother-figure during childhood
• What is affectionless psychopathy characterized by?

  Lack of guilt, empathy, and feelings for others
• What percentage of juvenile thieves in Bowlby's study exhibited affectionless psychopathy?

  32%
• What did Bowlby conclude about maternal deprivation and delinquent behavior?

  Maternal deprivation caused affectionless and delinquent behavior among juvenile thieves
• What limitation is noted regarding Bowlby's findings on maternal deprivation?

  The separation was not manipulated, so other factors may have caused delinquency
• What is a criticism of the role of the superego in criminal behavior?

  There is little empirical evidence to support the role of the superego
• What is a potential alternative explanation for a deviant superego?

  Genetics or differential associations could explain a deviant superego
• What is a contradiction in the concept of an over-harsh superego?

  Most criminals try to conceal their crimes, suggesting they want to avoid punishment
• What are the positive contributions of the psychodynamic approach to understanding offending behavior?

  • Acknowledges the vital role of childhood in development
  • First to recognize emotional factors in offending behavior
  • Addresses how anxiety and feelings of rejection contribute to criminal behavior
• What did Farrington (2009) conclude about risk factors for offending behavior?

  Family history of criminality is the most important risk factor
• What approach does Farrington's study support regarding explanations for offending behavior?

  An interactionist approach that combines several explanations
• What role does the id play in criminal behavior according to psychodynamic explanations?

  The id drives impulses that can lead to criminal behavior if not controlled
• What is the phallic stage in psychodynamic theory?

  A stage of development where identification with the same-sex parent occurs
• What is juvenile delinquency?

  Engagement in illegal or antisocial behavior by minors
• What methodology did Bowlby use in his 44 thieves study?

  Interviews with juvenile thieves and their families
• What are the implications of Bowlby's findings on social policy?

  They suggest the importance of maternal relationships in preventing delinquency
• How do emotional factors relate to criminal behavior according to the psychodynamic approach?

  Emotional factors like anxiety and rejection may contribute to offending behavior
• What impact does poor parenting have on juvenile delinquency?

  Poor parenting is identified as a risk factor for delinquent behavior