Discuss latent trait theories. Do you agree or disagree with this concept? Why or why not?
What will be an ideal response?
• Rowe, Osgood, and Nicewander proposed the concept of latent traits to explain the flow of delinquency over the life cycle.
• Their model assumes that a number of people in the population have a personal attribute or characteristic that controls their inclination or propensity to commit crimes.
• This disposition, or latent trait, may be either present at birth or established early in life, and it can remain stable over time.
• Suspected latent traits include defective intelligence, damaged or impulsive personality, genetic abnormalities, the physical-chemical functioning of the brain, and environmental influences on brain function such as drugs, chemicals, and injuries.
• Regardless of gender or environment, those who maintain one of these suspect traits may be at risk to delinquency and in danger of becoming career criminals; those who lack the traits have a much lower risk.
• Student views will vary.
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