Forensic Psychology: Unit 7 Topic A - Psychological Perspectives Applied to Criminal Behaviour

Flashcards reviewing the introductory concepts, perspectives (biological, personality, social learning, behavioural), and key theories applied to criminal behaviour in Forensic Psychology Unit 7 Topic A.

What is the primary focus of Unit 7 Topic A in Forensic Psychology?

Exploring psychological perspectives applied to criminal behaviour.

What factors do Biologically Based Approaches (A1) explore in relation to criminal behaviour?

They explore genetic, neurological, and physiological factors that may contribute to criminal behaviour.

What do Personality Approaches (A2) examine?

They examine how individual personality traits and disorders relate to criminal tendencies.

What do Social Learning Approaches (A3) and Behavioural Approaches (A4) investigate?

They investigate how environment, role models, conditioning, and group dynamics shape criminal behaviour.

What are the seven biological theories and factors listed under A1 Biological Theories?

1. Super Males XYY Genes, 2. MOAMA- Warrior Gene, 3. Twin studies, 4. Neurotransmitters, 5. Steriods, 6. Alcohol, and 7. Traumatic Brain Injuries.

Which theories and concepts are included under A2 Personality Approaches?

Theorick's Personality Theory, Arousal Theory, and Personality Disorders.

Which four theories and concepts are covered under A3 Social Learning Theories?

Maternal Deprivation, Friendship and Family Groups, Labelling Theory, and Group Identities.

How is criminal behaviour learned according to Bandura's Social Learning Theory?

It is learned through observation, imitation, and reinforcement of others — particularly role models.

According to Bandura's Social Learning Theory, why are environment and social context central to understanding criminality?

Because individuals observe and replicate behaviours that are rewarded.

How many theories must students remember, evaluate, and apply to real-world criminal behaviour scenarios in Unit 7 Forensic Psychology - Topic A?

15 Theories.