cognitive theories

What is cognition?

Refers to thinking and the mental process, the attitudes, beliefs, reasoning, decision making, our sense of self and how we interpret the world

What did yochelson and samenow do?

They applied cognitive theory to criminality- their idea is that criminals are prone to faulty thinking and this makes them more likely to commit crime. They conducted a long term study into 240 male offenders, most of which were in a psychiatric hospital, they argued they had thinking errors like lying, lack of empathy and becoming the victim which will eventually lead to crime.

What is kohlbergs theory?

Moral development- this is a theory of how we develop our moral thinking- this is relevant to understanding how criminals think. He argues our thoughts of right and wrong develop through levels and stages from childhood and adulthood. Young children define right and wrong in terms of what brings punishment and rewards. Adults define ideas of right and wrong with the understanding of moral principles and values. This suggests criminal moral development is less mature than everyone else- only think about punishment not the effect on others.

What is cognitive behaviour therapy?

CBT helps delinquents by helping change their thinking patterns. It’s a form of psychotherapy that aims to reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions. A talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave.