What is the role of empathy in criminal behavior? Which theories help explain this?

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: Answers should focus on psychopathy, moral development theory, and attachment theory. When discussing psychopathy, a lack of empathy or poverty of affect should be identified as the central defining characteristic of a psychopath. Moral development theory stresses the development of empathy as a key element of Kohlberg’s highest stage of moral development and argues that individuals evolving to higher stages of moral reasoning and developing the empathetic ability to appreciate the needs and interests of others are unlikely to commit crimes. Attachment theory sees the development of empathy as the single most important factor leading to conformity.

Criminal Justice

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Macro- and micro-level processes are the foundation for the legal cynicism defense in which victimization occurs on one of these levels depending on your social position

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Criminal Justice

Explain the difference between the hack and human service roles.

What will be an ideal response?

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Which of the following types of sentences may seem popular with the public at large until they get the bill?

A. Habitual offender B. Truth in sentencing C. Life without parole D. None of these

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What is the number one cause of wrongful convictions?

A. police prejudice B. judicial misconduct C. faulty eyewitness identification D. prosecutorial misconduct

Criminal Justice