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Appraising, researching and conceptualizing criminal thinking: a personal view
1Federal Correctional Institution, Schuylkill, Pennsylvania 17957-0700, USA. gwalters@bop.gov
Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health : CBMH
|June 7, 2006
Summary
This study reviews criminal thinking theories and research, highlighting its connection to criminal behavior. It examines assessment tools and theoretical frameworks for understanding and changing criminal thought patterns.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Psychology
Background:
- Criminal thinking concepts are rooted in traditional criminological theories like differential association and neutralization theory.
- Yochelson and Samenow's work on criminal personality also informs current interest in criminal thinking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize the theory, research, and practice of criminal thinking.
- To connect these aspects to the author's specific contributions in this field.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on criminal thinking.
- Summary of theoretical frameworks and empirical research findings.
Main Results:
- Identification of three key self-report inventories for assessing criminal thinking: Criminal Sentiments Scale (CSS), Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS), and Measures of Criminal Attitudes and Associates (MCAA).
- Highlighting three primary research areas: criminal thinking as a predictor of criminal behavior, the role of offense type in moderating criminal thinking, and the impact of changes in criminal thinking on behavior modification.
- Presentation of a general theory of criminal thinking.
Conclusions:
- Criminal thinking is a significant area of study with established theoretical underpinnings and empirical research.
- Assessment tools and research findings provide insights into the relationship between thinking patterns and criminal behavior.
- Understanding and modifying criminal thinking is crucial for behavioral change.
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