Psychology and Crime: Uncover the Psychological Factors Behind Criminal Behavior

Question 1

Psychopathy is characterized by all of the following traits EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

High anxiety levels

Answer

Lack of remorse or empathy

Answer

Superficial charm

Answer

Impulsivity

Question 2

The sociological concept of anomie refers to a state where:

Accepted Answer

Individuals experience a sense of normlessness and disconnection

Answer

Social norms are widely accepted and followed

Answer

Social cohesion is strong

Answer

Crime rates are low

Question 3

One of the main criticisms of the labeling perspective on deviance is that it:

Accepted Answer

Fails to consider the subjective perspectives of those labeled as deviant

Answer

Overemphasizes the role of social power in defining deviance

Answer

Ignores the influence of social consensus on labeling

Answer

Provides a comprehensive explanation of why individuals engage in deviant behavior

Question 4

Who is widely recognized as the founder of modern criminology?

Accepted Answer

Cesare Lombroso

Answer

Emile Durkheim

Answer

Robert Merton

Answer

Erving Goffman

Question 5

According to Social Control Theory, which of the following factors acts as a protective barrier against criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Strong parental attachment

Answer

Weak social bonds

Answer

Poor economic conditions

Answer

Neighborhood disorganization

Question 6

A common criticism of the neoclassical school of criminology is its:

Accepted Answer

Underestimation of social and environmental factors in criminal behavior

Answer

Excessive focus on biological and genetic explanations of crime

Answer

Overemphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment

Answer

Neglect of the impact of mental health issues on criminal conduct

Question 7

The term 'moral panic' refers to:

Accepted Answer

An exaggerated societal reaction to perceived threats or issues

Answer

Government campaigns intended to raise awareness about pressing social concerns

Answer

Media's sensationalized portrayal of criminal activity

Answer

Public outcry against severe crime problems

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a psychological factor that can contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

High intelligence

Answer

Low self-esteem

Answer

Impulsivity

Answer

Lack of empathy

Question 9

Psychopathy is often associated with reduced empathy. How does this affect their interactions with others?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty understanding others' emotions

Answer

Increased prosocial behaviors

Answer

Enhanced problem-solving abilities

Answer

Reduced likelihood of aggression

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the relationship between biological, psychological, and social factors in the development of deviant behavior?

Accepted Answer

Deviant behavior results from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Answer

Biological factors alone determine deviant behavior.

Answer

Psychological factors, such as low self-esteem, are the sole cause of deviant behavior.

Answer

Social factors, such as poverty and lack of opportunities, are the only factors that influence deviant behavior.

Question 11

How do societal norms and values contribute to the definition and perception of deviant behavior?

Accepted Answer

They shape the way deviant behavior is labeled, categorized, and punished.

Answer

They provide a universal and unchanging definition of deviant behavior.

Answer

They have no influence on the definition of deviant behavior.

Question 12

Which of the following psychological factors is consistently linked to an increased risk of criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Low self-esteem

Answer

Positive peer relationships

Answer

High levels of empathy

Answer

Strong moral values

Question 13

Impulsivity is a personality trait characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Acting without considering the consequences

Answer

Planning and considering outcomes carefully

Answer

Seeking out and enjoying danger

Answer

Being cautious and risk-averse

Question 14

Which mental health issue is strongly associated with both violent and property crimes?

Accepted Answer

Antisocial personality disorder

Answer

Anxiety disorder

Answer

Depression

Answer

Schizophrenia

Question 15

The social learning theory suggests that criminal behavior can be acquired through:

Accepted Answer

Observing and imitating others

Answer

Genetic inheritance

Answer

Reading books and watching movies

Answer

Experiencing traumatic events

Question 16

Which of the following is a cognitive distortion that can contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Thinking in black-and-white terms

Answer

Having a realistic view of the world

Answer

Being able to see both positive and negative aspects of situations

Question 17

According to the rational choice theory, criminals:

Accepted Answer

Weigh the potential costs and benefits of criminal behavior before committing crimes

Answer

Are always impulsive and irrational

Answer

Are primarily driven by emotions

Question 18

Which of the following is a potential advantage of addressing psychological factors in reducing crime?

Accepted Answer

Preventing individuals from developing criminal behavior

Answer

Punishing criminals more severely

Answer

Eliminating all crime in society

Question 19

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that aims to:

Accepted Answer

Change negative thought patterns and behaviors

Answer

Reduce anxiety and depression only

Answer

Improve self-esteem only

Answer

Cure mental illness completely

Question 20

Recent research suggests that mindfulness techniques can be effective in:

Accepted Answer

Reducing aggression and impulsivity

Answer

Increasing criminal activity

Answer

Treating major mental illness completely

Answer

Boosting intelligence

Question 21

Which psychological factor is characterized by the inability to control one's impulses?

Accepted Answer

Impulsivity

Answer

Low self-esteem

Answer

Cognitive distortion

Answer

Anxiety

Question 22

The theory that criminal behavior results from a lack of strong social ties and support is known as:

Accepted Answer

Social Control Theory

Answer

Strain Theory

Answer

Social Learning Theory

Question 23

Cognitive distortions are:

Accepted Answer

Unrealistic or biased thought patterns

Answer

Emotional regulation difficulties

Answer

Memory impairments

Question 24

Which psychological disorder involves an inflated sense of self-importance and a need for constant admiration?

Accepted Answer

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Answer

Histrionic Personality Disorder

Answer

Borderline Personality Disorder

Answer

Antisocial Personality Disorder

Question 25

The belief in one's ability to successfully perform a task is referred to as:

Accepted Answer

Self-efficacy

Answer

Self-awareness

Answer

Self-esteem

Question 26

The therapeutic approach that aims to change unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with criminal behavior is:

Accepted Answer

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Answer

Psychoanalysis

Answer

Humanistic Therapy

Answer

Psychodynamic Therapy

Question 27

The theory that suggests criminal behavior can be learned through observing and imitating others is known as:

Accepted Answer

Social Learning Theory

Answer

Labeling Theory

Answer

Strain Theory

Answer

Social Control Theory

Question 28

Which psychological factor has been linked to an increased likelihood of criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Low self-esteem

Answer

High self-efficacy

Answer

Positive coping mechanisms

Answer

Strong social support

Question 29

Impulsivity can be described as:

Accepted Answer

Acting rashly without considering consequences

Answer

Being able to delay gratification

Answer

Planning and executing tasks effectively

Answer

Responding calmly to stressful situations

Question 30

Which mental health condition is strongly associated with violent behavior?

Accepted Answer

Antisocial personality disorder

Answer

Generalized anxiety disorder

Answer

Depression

Answer

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Question 31

How does low self-esteem contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

It can lead individuals to seek validation through negative and harmful actions.

Answer

It makes individuals more empathetic and less likely to engage in crime.

Answer

It has no significant impact on criminal behavior.

Question 32

Which of the following is NOT an effective way to address psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Dismissing or downplaying the underlying issues

Answer

Providing counseling and therapy

Answer

Offering educational interventions

Answer

Implementing social support programs

Question 33

Which evidence-based technique can be used to manage impulsivity in the context of criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Answer

Time management techniques only

Answer

None of the above

Answer

Medication alone

Question 34

How can mental health issues be prevented from escalating to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Early identification and appropriate treatment

Answer

Stigmatizing individuals with mental health conditions

Answer

Ignoring mental health issues

Answer

Criminalizing individuals with mental health conditions

Question 35

A criticism of the psychological approach to explaining criminal behavior is that it:

Accepted Answer

Tends to overlook social and economic factors

Answer

Is not supported by scientific evidence

Answer

Ignores the role of genetics

Answer

Focuses too heavily on individual responsibility

Question 36

Despite its limitations, why is the psychological approach to explaining criminal behavior still widely used?

Accepted Answer

It offers valuable insights into individual motivations and decision-making processes

Answer

It is the only theory that can fully explain all criminal behavior

Answer

It is easy to apply and understand

Answer

It is the most accurate and comprehensive theory of crime

Question 37

Which psychological factor is MOST strongly linked to impulsive and reckless criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Low self-control

Answer

High self-esteem

Answer

Generalized anxiety disorder

Answer

Authoritarian parenting style

Question 38

A young person with a history of conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder is at increased risk of engaging in criminal behavior. This is MOST likely due to the influence of:

Accepted Answer

Mental health issues

Answer

Economic deprivation

Answer

Labeling theory

Answer

Social learning

Question 39

According to Albert Bandura's social learning theory, individuals may learn to engage in criminal behavior by:

Accepted Answer

Observing and imitating others who are rewarded for similar actions

Answer

Experiencing severe economic hardship

Answer

Being diagnosed with a personality disorder

Question 40

Which cognitive bias can contribute to individuals making decisions that lead to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Minimizing the consequences of their actions

Answer

Strain theory

Answer

Social disorganization

Answer

Collective efficacy

Question 41

Early intervention programs focusing on emotional regulation and empathy in children primarily aim to address which aspect of crime prevention?

Accepted Answer

Psychological factors

Answer

Economic inequality

Answer

Lack of law enforcement

Answer

Social disorganization

Question 42

Which statement BEST reflects the relationship between mental health and crime?

Accepted Answer

While some individuals with mental health issues may engage in crime, the majority do not.

Answer

Individuals with mental health issues are more likely to be victims of crime than perpetrators.

Answer

Mental illness is the primary cause of criminal behavior.

Question 43

How might low self-esteem potentially contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Individuals may seek validation and belonging through gang affiliation.

Answer

It often results in higher levels of self-control.

Answer

It can lead to increased empathy for victims.

Question 44

What is the PRIMARY goal of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) when used with offenders?

Accepted Answer

To help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Answer

To address socioeconomic factors contributing to criminal behavior.

Answer

To provide medication to manage mental health symptoms.

Question 45

The 'nature versus nurture' debate in psychology is relevant to understanding criminal behavior.  Which statement BEST reflects the current understanding?

Accepted Answer

Both biological factors (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) play a role in influencing criminal behavior.

Answer

Criminal behavior is primarily determined by genetics.

Question 46

A study finds a correlation between childhood trauma and adult criminal offending. What is the MOST accurate conclusion that can be drawn from this finding?

Accepted Answer

Childhood trauma may be a risk factor for criminal offending, but it does not guarantee future criminal behavior.

Answer

Experiencing childhood trauma inevitably leads to a life of crime.

Question 47

Which of the following is NOT a psychological factor that can contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

High self-esteem

Answer

Impulsivity

Answer

Mental health issues

Answer

Low self-esteem

Question 48

Which of the following is a characteristic of individuals with low self-esteem?

Accepted Answer

Feeling worthless and inadequate

Answer

Having strong social skills

Answer

Having a positive self-image

Answer

Being highly motivated

Question 49

Impulsivity is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Acting without thinking about the consequences

Answer

Being patient and deliberate

Answer

Planning and considering different options

Answer

Exercising self-control

Question 50

Which of the following mental health issues has been linked to an increased risk of criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Anxiety disorder

Answer

Depression

Answer

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Question 51

How can addressing psychological factors help reduce the risk of criminal activity?

Accepted Answer

By providing individuals with coping mechanisms and healthy ways to manage their emotions and behaviors

Answer

By increasing punishment for criminals

Question 52

Which of the following is a common criticism of psychological explanations of crime?

Accepted Answer

They fail to take into account social factors

Answer

They are biased towards certain groups

Answer

They are based on outdated research

Answer

They are too simplistic

Question 53

How can low self-esteem influence an individual's decision-making?

Accepted Answer

It can lead them to seek attention and approval through risky behaviors

Answer

It gives them a sense of entitlement

Answer

It makes them less likely to consider the consequences of their actions

Question 54

Which of the following theories emphasizes the role of impulsivity in criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Social learning theory

Answer

Strain theory

Answer

Control theory

Answer

Rational choice theory

Question 55

How does mental health affect an individual's ability to control their behavior?

Accepted Answer

It can impair their judgment and decision-making skills

Answer

It makes them more likely to be violent

Answer

It reduces their empathy towards others

Question 56

What are some effective strategies for addressing psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive behavioral therapy, counseling, and medication

Answer

Punishment, imprisonment, and fines

Answer

Ignoring the issue and hoping it will resolve itself