What do you think criminology can draw from the field of psychology in trying to explain crime and deviance?
According to theories discussed in this chapter, what can people do to prevent being victimized? Do we seem to blame victims who do not seem to do enough to avoid exposure to crime?
Criminology in the field of psychology
Full Answer Section
- Understanding the impact of crime on victims: Psychology can help us to understand the impact of crime on victims. For example, victims of crime may experience a number of negative consequences, such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder: Victims of crime may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a mental health condition that can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
- Fear: Victims of crime may experience fear, which can make it difficult to go about their daily lives.
- Guilt: Victims of crime may feel guilty, even though they did nothing wrong.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential dangers.
- Take precautions: Take steps to protect yourself, such as carrying a personal alarm or pepper spray.
- Trust your instincts: If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and leave the situation.
- Investing in social programs: Social programs that provide education, job training, and other services can help to reduce crime.
- Enacting stricter gun control laws: Stricter gun control laws can make it more difficult for criminals to obtain guns.
- Providing more police presence: More police presence can deter crime and make people feel safer.
Sample Answer
Criminology can draw from the field of psychology in trying to explain crime and deviance in a number of ways. For example, psychology can help us to understand the motivations of criminals, the factors that contribute to criminal behavior, and the impact of crime on victims.
Some of the ways that criminology can draw from psychology include:
- Understanding the motivations of criminals: Psychology can help us to understand why people commit crimes. For example, psychologists have identified a number of factors that can contribute to criminal behavior, such as:
- Mental illness: Some people who commit crimes have mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or antisocial personality disorder.
- Trauma: People who have experienced trauma, such as abuse or neglect, are more likely to commit crimes.
- Learning: People who learn that crime is a way to get what they want are more likely to commit crimes.