Childhood predicator of criminal behavior
Over the last couple of decades, numerous commentaries have been published noting the importance of developmental criminology contribution to both practical and theoretical understanding of the course of crime from childhood through to adulthood(Juon & Ensminger, 2006). Research by various institutions and psychologists have suggested that the understanding of the developmental constructs in the context of crime and criminal behavior adds better understanding and appreciation of interactions and the consequences of different events throughout childhood (Buikhuisen, 1988).
Other researchers suggest the application of these developmental constructs and perspectives is important to the study of criminal behavior and helps advance the current knowledge of criminal behavior causes and courses (Buikhuisen, 1988).
Longitudinal research and studies have proved that there is a link between childhood experience and the subsequent criminal behavior. Most of these studies argue that the inability of parents to foster the discipline of self-control, hostile parenting principles, neuropsychological disorders, coercive family interactions are some of the predicators of criminal behavior (Juon & Ensminger, 2006).. The inability of children to develop social skills at different age groups in order to fit in the society are some causes of criminal behavior later in life. This causes provide great basis for prevention of criminal behavior in adulthood (Juon & Ensminger, 2006).
Studies on developmental disorders in children has to a great extent revealed the most likely social impacts and their likely contributions towards development of antisocial behavior or crime. Most of the developmental disorders have been shown to cause isolation among the children suffering from such illnesses. This disorders most likely lead to development of behaviors considered antisocial or illegal for that matter. Some of these antisocial behaviors can be stalking, obsession, deriving pleasure from the suffering of others and many other such behaviors (Buikhuisen, 1988).
The social, cultural and environmental factors can also be blamed as a cause of criminal behavior. Research has proven that certain predispositions in children life from an early age can be predictors to criminal behavior in adulthood (Juon & Ensminger, 2006). For example, child growing up in an environment where both parents are unemployed and cannot effectively cover for the needs alone without considering the child may predispose the children to life in crime in order to fend for themselves.
References
Buikhuisen, W., & Mednick, S. A. (1988). Explaining criminal behaviour: Interdisciplinary approaches. Leiden: E.J. Brill.
Juon, H., Doherty, E., & Ensminger, M. (2006). Childhood Behavior and Adult Criminality: Cluster Analysis in a Prospective Study of African Americans. Journal Of Quantitative Criminology, 22(3), 193-214. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10940-006-9008-9
