The main aims of this article are to review evidence about the role of individual and family factors in offending, and to review methods of reducing offending based on individual and family factors. Psychological explanations of offending focus on individual difference factors and family influences, which have been investigated in prospective longitudinal surveys. The most important individual factors are hyperactivity and impulsivity, and low intelligence and attainment. The most important family influences are parental supervision and discipline, disrupted families, criminal parents, and large family size. The most important prevention techniques target individual and family risk factors, and have been evaluated in experimental and quasi-experimental research. Cognitive-behavioral skills training programs target impulsivity, while preschool intellectual enrichment programs target low school attainment. Home visiting programs, parent training programs, Functional Family Therapy, Treatment Foster Care, and Multisystemic Therapy target poor parental supervision and discipline. It is concluded that more early intervention efforts are urgently needed to tackle the roots of crime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Der heruntergeladene Inhalt darf nur für eigene Zwecke genutzt werden. Jede Art der Vervielfältigung führt zu einer Urheberrechtsverletzung!
This form uses Google Recaptcha for spam protection. Please enable Marketing Cookies in order to activate Recaptcha and use this form.