Help, I don't know where to begin.
Your supervisor would like you to do some research in preparation for an article regarding the application of modern theories of criminal thinking and criminal behavior of famous criminals in American history to be submitted to Criminologist's Quarterly. Using web research and Library resources, prepare an analysis, in a professional format of your choice, of a well-known criminal in American history; you can also choose duos or groups, such as Bonnie & Clyde or The Dalton Gang. Discuss how various psychological and sociological theories of criminal thinking and behavior would explain the criminal's crimes and how they would be classified today. For example, would Jesse James, a criminal who robbed banks with his James' Gang, be considered a psychopath or goal driven property criminal because he stole money or perhaps a member of organized crime because he was in a "gang."
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I'm just not sure where to begin. Who's an interesting gang or person to do this assignment on.
Go to google and type in "notorious crimes in American History." There are tons of criminals out there from years past...lots to choose from.
Take the professor's notes in the assignment and pick out key words and do searches on them. It's the easiest way to work through assignments (on top of reading the books given for each class).
To begin your research for this task, you can follow these steps:
1. Identify your chosen well-known criminal in American history or a duo/group of criminals. Consider individuals or groups such as Al Capone, John Dillinger, Bonnie & Clyde, or The Dalton Gang.
2. Start by conducting a basic search on the internet to gather general information about your chosen criminal(s). Look for reliable sources such as reputable news articles, historical archives, or academic publications.
3. Take note of key events, crimes, and characteristics associated with the criminal(s). Pay attention to any psychological or sociological aspects that might have influenced their behavior.
4. Once you have a general understanding of your subject, begin exploring psychological theories of criminal thinking and behavior. Some popular theories to consider are Sigmund Freud's psychoanalysis, differential association theory by Edwin Sutherland, or Robert Hare's psychopathy checklist.
5. Consult reputable academic sources and research papers from psychology and criminology journals to understand how these theories apply to criminal behavior.
6. Analyze your chosen criminal(s) in light of the theories you have researched. Note any patterns, motivations, or behaviors that align with any specific theories.
7. Consider the classification of the criminal's actions in today's context. Evaluate whether they would be classified as psychopathic behavior, goal-driven criminal activity, or even organized crime involvement.
8. If available, consider exploring sociological theories of criminal behavior as well. Sociological theories, such as strain theory, social learning theory, or labeling theory, can offer additional insights into the motivations and external factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
9. As you gather information, organize your analysis in a professional format of your choice. Consider creating headings or sections to address different aspects, such as the criminal's background, crimes committed, and the application of different theories.
10. Make sure to cite all sources appropriately using a consistent citation style, such as APA or MLA, to maintain academic integrity.
Remember to critically evaluate the information you gather and use reliable and scholarly sources as much as possible to ensure the accuracy and credibility of your analysis. Good luck with your research!