According to which theory are criminal tendencies a function of disturbances in early development that lead to mental instability and mood disorders?

According to which theory are criminal tendencies a function of disturbances in early development that lead to mental instability and mood disorders?

• A. Psychodynamic Theory
• B. Social Learning Theory
• C. Strain Theory
• D. Routine Activity Theory

Answer: (A)

Disturbances in early development shaping later behavior is a hallmark of the psychodynamic view. This perspective holds that personality and emotional functioning are largely carved out by childhood experiences and unresolved conflicts buried in the unconscious. When development is disrupted, it can create internal instability, unresolved impulses, and mood or mental health disorders. Those inner tensions can manifest as problematic behavior in adulthood, including criminal acts, as expressions of distress, impulsivity, or maladaptive defenses. In contrast, other theories focus on learning from others (social learning), pressures and strain from blocked goals (strain theory), or opportunities and routines that make crime more or less likely (routine activity theory). They don’t center on early psychic conflicts and mental health as the roots of criminal tendencies.

Disturbances in early development shaping later behavior is a hallmark of the psychodynamic view. This perspective holds that personality and emotional functioning are largely carved out by childhood experiences and unresolved conflicts buried in the unconscious. When development is disrupted, it can create internal instability, unresolved impulses, and mood or mental health disorders. Those inner tensions can manifest as problematic behavior in adulthood, including criminal acts, as expressions of distress, impulsivity, or maladaptive defenses.

In contrast, other theories focus on learning from others (social learning), pressures and strain from blocked goals (strain theory), or opportunities and routines that make crime more or less likely (routine activity theory). They don’t center on early psychic conflicts and mental health as the roots of criminal tendencies.