Compare and contrast the temperament and biological approach and the personality approach with respect to development, causes of behavior, and influences on criminal behavior. Which approach has more of an influence on developing criminal characteristics?

What do your text materials say?

To compare and contrast the temperament and biological approach with the personality approach, we need to consider their perspectives on development, causes of behavior, and influences on criminal behavior.

1. Development:
The temperament and biological approach focuses on innate factors that contribute to development. This approach emphasizes that biological or genetic factors largely influence an individual's temperament and personality traits from an early age. It suggests that certain temperamental or biological characteristics may predispose individuals to certain behaviors, including criminal behavior.

On the other hand, the personality approach considers environmental and social factors that shape an individual's personality. It suggests that personality development is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors throughout a person's lifespan. This approach emphasizes the importance of socialization, learning, and individual experiences in shaping behavior, including criminal behavior.

2. Causes of Behavior:
The temperament and biological approach attribute behavior to various biological factors, such as genetics, brain structure, hormones, and neurotransmitters. It suggests that certain biological predispositions or abnormalities may contribute to the development of criminal characteristics, such as aggression or impulsivity.

The personality approach focuses on internal psychological processes, including cognitive, emotional, and motivational factors, to explain behavior. It suggests that a person's personality traits, such as impulsivity, sensation-seeking, or low empathy, can contribute to criminal behavior. These traits may develop as a result of various social and environmental influences, such as parenting, peer relationships, or exposure to violence.

3. Influences on Criminal Behavior:
Both approaches acknowledge the influence of biological factors on developing criminal characteristics, but they differ in emphasis. The temperament and biological approach places more emphasis on biological factors like genetics, brain structure, or hormonal imbalances as primary contributors to criminal behavior. It suggests that individuals may have a genetic predisposition or abnormalities that make them more susceptible to engaging in criminal acts.

The personality approach recognizes the role of environmental factors, such as family, peers, or socioeconomic conditions, in shaping criminal behavior. It suggests that the interplay between environmental influences and individual personality traits can lead to criminal tendencies. For instance, a combination of genetic predisposition for aggression and exposure to a violent environment may increase the likelihood of criminal behavior.

As for which approach has more influence on developing criminal characteristics, it is challenging to determine a clear winner. The causes of criminal behavior are complex and multifaceted, involving interactions between biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Research suggests that both biological predispositions and environmental influences play crucial roles in shaping criminal behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to consider a comprehensive understanding that incorporates aspects from both approaches to gain a more nuanced perspective.