A discussion of risk factors for adolescents and the development of antisocialbehavior and the role of school and family in the development of deviant and criminal behavior.
Abstract This paper discusses the impact of schools and family on future deviant or criminal behavior and discusses the proven correlation between negative school and family environments and future deviant or criminal behavior. It describes risk factors for adolescents and the development of antisocialbehavior. The paper looks at the role of escape conditioning during family interactions in the development of aggressive and antisocialbehavior and discusses the application of the social learning theory.
From the Paper "According to Williams (2000) Long Beach school officials found that in the year following implementation of the school uniform policy, overall school crime decreased thirty-six percent, fights decreased fifty-one percent, sex offenses decreased seventy-four percent, weapons offenses decreased fifty percent, assault and battery offenses decreased thirty-four percent, and vandalism decreased eighteen percent. Unexpectedly, fewer than one percent of the students have elected to opt out of the uniform policy."
"Some school systems have allowed students to decide whether to wear uniform clothing, but others have determined that a mandatory school uniform policy with no opt out provision is necessary to address a disruptive atmosphere. According to Cruz (2001) a Phoenix, Arizona school, for example, adopted a mandatory uniform policy requiring all of its students to wear school uniforms, or if they choose to defy the policy, attend another public school. Encouragingly, this Phoenix school uniform policy was recently upheld by a state trial court."
Abstract The paper relates that both nature and nurture contribute, albeit unequally, to individuals that indulge in sociopathic, criminal and antisocialbehavior. The paper explores the research that shows how an individual can have a genetic predisposition to crime, where the combination of gene products and biological processes result in a lack of inhibition and results in impulsive and aggressive behavior. The paper then shows how an individual who is brought up in an environment where the opportunities are lacking will also exhibit antisocialbehavior and criminal tendencies.
From the Paper "One of the major conundrums that societies have to face is to address the following issue: in the development of children and juveniles into productive members of society, which plays a more important role: nature or nurture? This debate will perhaps, never end. In the early part of the twentieth century, nature was supposed to win out. The execrable notion of eugenics, where criminals, homosexuals and some of society's misfits were sterilized so that they would not pollute the gene pool was popular. Some prominent people of the time subscribed to this idea and it was practiced in Europe for a while. After the 1950s, a new ideation came about: that children, at birth, were a blank slate or tabula rasa. (Pinker, 2002) This meant that children could be nurtured depending on their environments. One of the extreme cases of nurture over nature was when boys were raised as girls and vice-versa, with deleterious effects. This is because researchers realized that an instinctual component exists, which causes boys to be boys and they could not be raised otherwise."
An analysis of D. Center and D, Kemp's work, "Troubled Children Grown Up: AntisocialBehavior in Young Adult Criminals" as it relates to qualitative vs. quantitative approaches to theory in criminology.
Abstract This study involves an in-depth analysis of qualitative vs. quantitative approaches to theory in criminology. Specifically, the paper weighs the relative merits of qualitative vs. quantitative approaches to research design in criminology. The author assumes that a quantitative approach is more likely to yield useful results in the field and that researchers should focus their attention on quantitative based research practices. To carry out this goal the paper provides an in-depth analysis of Center & Kemp's work, "Troubled Children Grown Up: AntisocialBehavior in Young Adult Criminals."
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Hypothesis
Background/Rationale
Literature Review
Methodology
Statistical Analysis
Data Collection
Conclusions/Discussion
Recommendation
From the Paper "Center & Kemp use two-way ANOVA to evaluate the results of their research related to antisocial behavior in young adults. The data collect includes principal analysis employing fixed categorical variables defined as "official conviction offense and self-reported antisocial behavior on the NYS." The results of the study yielded a significant effect. The researchers compared the parolee sample with norms established for the survey instruments collected, using multiple t-tests to control for Type I errors. Significant differences were identified between the parolee group with norms, suggesting that personality traits and biological factors may impact young adults ability to integrate and demonstrate antisocial behaviors at a later date."
Abstract This paper examines existing research to discuss antisocialbehavior in females with co-morbid diagnoses of ADHD and conduct disorder. It explains the fundamentals of both conditions and the factors that led to the association of males with the disorders.
From the Paper "Detention centers and residential treatment facilities are replete with male and female youth that have been in and out of the juvenile justice system for many years. Although the majority of the populations in these facilities are male, the number of female juvenile offenders is continually increasing. Many of the children in these facilities have a history of behavioral difficulties that may or may not have been diagnosed during much of their childhood."
Abstract The paper examines whether Antisocial Personality Disorder is influenced more by Nature or by Nurture. The paper explains that it is necessary to first offer a brief definition of this disorder, for doing so will frame the discussion and provide a focus for analysis. The paper relates that as a chronic behavioral disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder can be identified and diagnosed by determining whether behavioral and relationship patterns have been interfering with the subject's life over many years.
Abstract This paper examines the case of Richard Speck, a convicted murderer of eight women in the United State. At Speck's trial his attorney claimed that a new theory of behavioral causality with an identifiable chromosomal abnormality represented by the XYY configuration corresponded to specific behavioral traits that predisposed individuals to violent and antisocialbehavior. The author of the paper examines evidence for and against this theory in the light of Speck's childhood, research and an autopsy performed on Speck's body after he died in 1991.
Outline:
Background and History
XYY Supermale Analysis
Social Biology Analysis
References
From the Paper "Critics of the XYY theory of criminal conduct suggest that even if XYY corresponds to higher statistical likelihood of certain types of antisocial behavior, it is not substantially different from other components of naturally evolved human behaviors. In other primate species, including those most closely related to homo sapiens, male dominance is expressed through patterns of behavior that would be considered, in human terms, criminal. According to that view, even XYY-based behavioral patterns still lie within the spectrum of normal human tendencies and that it is not particularly surprising that prisons house individuals who share behavioral traits consistent with criminal behavior (The Hastings Center 1980)."
Abstract This paper commences an analysis of a prostitute, Nita, by looking at the parenting skills of her mother whom the author mostly blames for Nita's failure to find self-fulfillment in positive activities. The author points out the extreme difference in the way Nita turned out as compared to her best friend Kelly, who shared almost every sociological situation with her. The paper concludes that Kelly's mother made her daughter apply herself to her schooling goals; whereas, Nita's mother never directed Nita so that she consistently would experienced a course of action leading to the achievement of a goal.
Table of Contents:
Introduction of Person
Consequences of Behavior Opinion on Factors Which Have Contributed to Behavior Interventions Tried
Summary of Some of the Factors about the Person
Comparison of Person with AntisocialBehavior with "Normal" Person
Comments on Comparison of Person Profiled and People with AntisocialBehavior
From the Paper "In comparison, Kelly's mother (also a single mom) was concerned when Kelly and Nita were caught shoplifting and when Nita got pregnant. But she found a way to discipline and keep tabs on Kelly enough so that Kelly was made to apply herself to her schooling goals again. Kelly had to attend dance and music classes when she was young, even when she didn't want to go and Kelly's mother had been consistent in her disciplining of Kelly throughout her young life. Kelly's mother also listened without being judgmental to anything that Kelly told her and allowed Kelly to make her own decisions about most activities."
Abstract This paper examines antisocial personality disorder (APD), describing it as a behavioral disorder indicated by actions that are blatantly destructive or actions that disregard the rights and feelings of others. The paper explains that people with APD generally appear to be charming, intelligent, and soft-spoken, belying the true brutality of which they?re capable. The paper aims to show that there are correlations between antisocial conduct in youths and adults who have APD. The paper outlines the two most effective methods of preventing APD - multidimensional treatment foster care and targeted interventions.
From the Paper "Almost everyone, at one point in his or her childhood, has squashed a bug, or thrown a rock at a bird. For most of us, that was nothing more than youthful friskiness. For some, however, bug squashing and rock-tossing leads to cat kicking and dog punching. And for some of us, these animal abuses are indicators for far more serious problems that emerge later in life. According to the DSM-IV, antisocial personality disorder (APD) describes a condition in which there are persistent patterns of behavior that are typified by disregard for the rights and feelings of others."
Abstract This paper presents a thorough explanation of aggression replacement training and the basic tenants of this form of therapy. The goal is to give adolescents alternatives to their aggression and antisocialbehavior and teach them to recognize the precursors to their physically aggressive and threatening behavior. The author also cites the importance of adolescents considering the consequences of their actions and taking positive control of their situation. The paper further describes the three intervention techniques used that correspond with the three components of aggressive behavior.
From the Paper "A group format is generally used for this type of training, because the dynamics of the group can be used to help advance learning much more quickly. Some of the ways that learning is solidified are through role playing, homework assignments, and the repetition of important concepts (Glick, et al, 1986). There are both pre- and post-tests that are given to the adolescents in order to help determine whether the program was effective and how much skill development the participants have seen, and adults that have interaction with these adolescents outside of the group, such as probation officers, teachers, and parents, are given information that explains the techniques and terminology that are used in the program (Goldstein & Glick, 1994). "
Abstract The paper shows how the recent spate of school shootings has focused attention once again on how the media portrays violence and how decades of studies have long supported theories linking media violence and antisocialbehavior. It examines media violence by focusing on the effect of violent television programs on children and adolescents. The first part of the paper looks at the amount and content of violent programming on television. The second part looks at the detrimental effects such programming has on the health and physical well being of children and teens. The next part then examines the psychological effects of constant exposure to violent programming and the implications these effects can have on an adolescent's behavior as an adult.
From the Paper "Perhaps the most disturbing effect of a childhood exposure to violence is its implications on future violent behavior as an adult. People who were exposed to a significant amount of violent programming as children are more likely to become physically aggressive adults. Many men who commit spousal abuse or engage in criminal behavior viewed large amounts television violence as children. Women who are exposed to television violence as girls are more likely to assault other adults (Huesmann et al, 210). Despite the significant correlations between violent programming and behavior, the problem does not lie with the depictions of violence per se. After all, plays like MacBeth and Oedipus Rex contain deal with events like betrayal, murder and patricide. In these plays, however, viewers associate violence with its harmful results."
Abstract This paper examines how the extent of parents? involvement in their children's lives can have a profound effect on their children's development. It looks at how, left entirely to his or her own devices, a child is prey to a wide range of malevolent influences and how, if this pattern of behavior is not stemmed early on, it may well become irreversible. It demonstrates how a proper education is probably one of the few accomplishments that can counteract the creeping development of these antisocialbehaviors and how parents must become involved in their children's lives in order to insure that their children become fully-functioning, moral, and ethical adults, who contribute to and sustain the world in which they live. This argument is illustrated by using a hypothetical case of a troubled youth called John.
Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Chapter I ?The Situation at Hand"
Chapter II ?Underlying Factors"
Chapter III ?Breaking the Cycle of Failure"
Conclusions
Works Cited
From the Paper "A poor family relationship can have a deleterious effect on the development of the growing child. Sisters and brothers might fight with each other, argue and make fun of one another, and do other things that might be considered destructive to the development of a positive self-image. Similarly, neglectful or abusive parents can have a strongly negative effect on the child socialization and self-esteem. In the most serious of cases, the child might develop lifelong mental and emotional problems, or even dangerously antisocial or criminal characteristics."
Abstract This paper discusses antisocial personality disorder, which refers to a chronic condition whereby people exhibit no concern for the rights of others. It describes the signs and symptoms of the disorder, as well as its possible causes. It then looks at risk factors associated with the disorder. Finally, the paper discusses diagnosis and assessment of the disorder, as well as treatment options.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Signs and Symptoms
Causes
Risk Factors
When to Seek Medical Advice
Screening and Diagnosis
Complications
Treatment
Prevention
Coping Skills
From the Paper "Psychotherapy enables people with antisocial personality disorder to develop needed interpersonal skills as well as a code of ethics. The problem with psychotherapy is that it is based in a strong therapist-patient relationship. Establishing such a relationship is a problem because the person is usually angry and emotionally unstable. They have problems with interpersonal skills and are impulsive. Group therapy is sometimes an option. When there is a high risk of self-harm or harm to others, people with antisocial personality disorder may be hospitalized so that they can be monitored at all times."
An investigation to determine whether children with an autistic sibling are at greater risk for developing conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocialbehavior.
Abstract This study examines the psychological well-being and sibling relationships in adolescent siblings who have a brother or sister with an autism spectrum disorder. In examining these children, the paper attempts to determine the incidence of children who experience conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocialbehavior who also have autistic siblings as well as what factors tend to contribute to an increased incidence of these conditions in otherwise-normal siblings of autistic children. Finally, the study attempts to identify clinical interventions that have been proven effective in helping the entire family in general, and otherwise-normal siblings in particular, in the past.
Introduction
Background of the Problem
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Research Questions
Limitations and Delimitations
Definitions
Summary
Preliminary Literature Review
Methodology
Description of the Study Approach
Data-gathering Method and Database of Study
From the Paper "The number of children who have been diagnosed with autism has increased sharply in recent years; the data had suggested that autism occurs in at least one of every 1,000 children; however, more recent studies demonstrated a prevalence rate that was two- to three-times higher than these earlier estimates. According to Mayes, "Autistic spectrum disorders occur much more frequently in males than females, with the exception of Rett Syndrome, a rare and severe disorder only occurring in females" (p. 92). Autism often occurs in combination with other mental impairments, such as mental retardation, seizure disorders, and attention deficit-hyperactivity/disorder. Furthermore, autism is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed, but once the condition is diagnosed, the most effective response is early, aggressive intervention focusing on social and communicative deficits; however, older individuals with autism may also gain some benefit from structured interventions."
Abstract This paper presents a case study which illustrates how latent traits and environmental factors combine to create delinquent behavior. Specifically, the paper explores the family life of a troubled teen and the failed interventions which sought to rescue him from a life of crime. The paper also looks at the consequences of the young person's actions and considers how his behavior fits in with orthodox descriptions of delinquent behavior. Finally, the paper discusses and analyzes the social control theory and the self-control theory which offer potential explanations for his behavior and suggests that one of them appears to offer a more accurate insight into "Steven's" plight than the other.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Self-Control Theory and Delinquent Behavior
From the Paper "Ultimately, this writer believes that both the social control theory and the self-control theory offer significant explanations for Steve's delinquency. However, the self-control theory actually appears rather more pertinent insofar as Steven was, by all accounts, a rebellious and even violent child from a very early age. As well, it is commonly known that his parents were dominant factors in his early life - because of social isolation, he spent far more time with them than with anyone else (he was, in fact, home-schooled at one point by his mother) - and both Steven's father and his grandfather had serious "run-ins" with the law. This evidence suggests that a genetic predisposition to antisocial behavior may run in the family and, to the extent this is true, then Steven's problems are the manifestation of a latent trait that has always been there and perhaps will always be there."
Abstract A report based on a study conducted into the association between substance abuse behavior and antisocialbehavior. The paper reviews the results from a sample of 72 adolescent males remanded to a residential treatment facility in Delaware. Conclusions drawn include that juvenile crime is prevalent in our society and that it is increasing and that substance abuse is a strong component in the commission of juvenile crime.
From the Paper "While the reviewed literature indicates a connection between antisocial behavior and substance abuse that may be the result of personality, genetics, and demographic factors, it is important to evaluate the general quality of the existing studies in order to determine how much confidence to place in these findings. In this regard, there are some problems."
