Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Protocol for Studying Extinction of Conditioned Fear in Naturally Cycling Female Rats
Published on: February 23, 2015
Precursors and correlates of criminal behaviour in women
Julie Messer1, Barbara Maughan, David Quinton
1MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, UK. J.Messer@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Background:
The precursors and correlates of criminal behaviour in women were examined in this longitudinal study of women in their late thirties.
Methods:
The sample consisted of a high-risk group of women (n = 86) and a comparison group (n = 97): the former had been raised in institutional care. Questionnaire measures of childhood behaviour problems and detailed interview data from two time points in adulthood were obtained, along with official records of offending.
Results:
In terms of childhood precursors, antisocial behaviour, institutional rearing, hyperactivity and adolescent conduct disorder were found to be significantly related to offending. Later adolescent factors were also found to be important: mixing with deviant peers and leaving school without any qualifications or plans for work. Correlates of offending in adulthood included difficulties in mental health, drug use, marriage and parenting. Further analysis was undertaken to clarify the associations by using ex-care status and conduct disorder as covariates.
Discussion:
Well-established predictors of offending in male samples seem quite as important for women and girls. The findings also suggested strong links between offending and problems in parenting.
Related Concept Videos
Criticisms of the Evolutionary Perspective
Evolutionary psychology provides one explanation for these findings, suggesting...
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Behavioral Characteristics and...
Conduct Disorder
Causes of Social Behavior II: Cognitive Processes
Causes of Social Behavior III: Biological and Environmental Influences
Jealousy in Romantic Relationships

