1. Explanations of Criminal Behavior

2. Causes of Crime • Many different theories • There is a spiritual relationship with crime, but it is not talked about in textbooks as a scientific theory because it is not observable – no empirical data

3. Classical Theory • Rests on two assumptions: • 1. Free will (people choose to commit crimes) • 2. Reason (they choose decisions that will benefit them)

4. Social Structure Theories • Links social class and things like poverty, unemployment, and poor education to criminal behavior

5. Biological Theories • “Criminals are born not made.” • Focuses on genetics

6. Psychological Theories • Focuses on mental and emotional elements in criminal behavior – mental processes (defective) usually happens as a young child. • Deals with personalities • Psychopath/sociopath – Charles Manson/Serial Killers