Criminal Behavior

INTRODUCTION

Why do people commit crimes?

Research has found that many people carry specific genes which may cause them to commit crimes. Several research studies that were done over the past few years indicate that genes play a significant role in antisocial behavior.

We must understand how genes and the environment influence criminal behavior and to do that we must know how criminal behavior is defined. Criminal behavior is an act or failure to act in a way that violates public law. The Oxford Dictionary define Law as the system of rules which a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and which it may enforce by the imposition of penalties. (1)

Morley and Hall (2003), who have investigated the genetic influences on criminal behavior, point out three ways to define antisocial behavior. First is equating it with criminality and delinquency, which involve engaging in criminal acts. Secondly, individuals must define antisocial behavior through criteria used to diagnose certain personality disorders, specifically Antisocial Personality Disorder, which is associated with an increased risk in criminal activity. Lastly is the examining of personality traits that may be influential in the criminal behavior of individuals. Traits such as aggressiveness and

Criminology draws on psychology, economics, anthropology, psychiatry, biology, statistics, and other disciplines to explain the causes and prevention of criminal behavior. Criminology has historically played a reforming role in relation to Criminal Law and the criminal justice system. As an applied discipline, it has produced findings that have influenced legislators, judges, prosecutors, lawyers, Probation officers, and prison officials, prompting them to better understand crime and criminals and to develop better and more humane sentences and treatments for criminal behavior.