Animal Cruelty

Research Paper # 116703

Biology > Zoology
Criminology
Psychology > Child and Adolescent
Psychology > Disorders

Animal Cruelty

Looks at the progression of violence from animal cruelty to human brutality.

5,310 words () | 17 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews literature, which supports the linkage between cruelty to animals and to humans especially when this behavior originates in childhood. The paper stresses the importance of early intervention and treatment of animal abusers by medical professionals, law enforcement, teachers and parents to prevent further escalation of this behavior.

Table of Contents:
Introduction- Statement of the Problem and Background
Literature Review and Notorious Examples of Violent Animal Abusers
Profile of an Animal Abuser
Laws Against Animal Cruelty
Medical Viewpoint and Steps to Prevention
Plan of Action-Suggestions
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Psychologists have discovered that animal cruelty is associated with anti-social behavior and childhood animal abuse is a vital warning sign. Conduct disorder was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1987. One of the criteria for this disorder in children is cruelty to animals. Children that are diagnosed with conduct disorder often develop anti-social personality disorder as adults. The younger the child is when diagnosed with conduct disorder, the greater the risk that he/she will develop anti-social personality disorder."

Sample of Sources Used:

Adams, C. (1994). Bringing peace home: A feminist philosophical perspective on the abuse of women, children, and pet animals. Hypatia, 9(2), 63-84.
Arluke, A. (2006). Just a Dog: Understanding Animal Cruelty and Ourselves (pp. 232). Philadelphia: Temple University Press.
Ascione, F.R. (1993). Children who are cruel to animals: A review of research and implications for developmental psychopathology. Anthrozoos 6(4), 226-247.
ASPCA. (2006, November). American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Retrived September 23, 2008 from http://www.aspca.org
Felthous, A. R. (1980). Aggression against cats, dogs, and people. Child Psychiatry and Human Development, 10, 169-177.