Yochelson + Samenow

• Cognition refers to thinking and mental processes such as attitudes, problem solving, and beliefs
• Cognitive theories argue that these mental processes shape our behaviour
• Yochelson and Samenow's Criminal Personality theory states that the basis of criminality is the way a person thinks
• According to the theory, criminals think and act differently from normal people
• Criminals are described as being irresponsible, impulsive, self-centered, and driven by fear and anger
• Deterministic explanations of crime arise from sympathizing with the criminal
• Crime occurs because criminals choose it, and rehabilitation must address this choice
• The theory is based on a long-term study of 240 male offenders, most of whom were residents of a psychiatric center