Developmental Psychology with regards to crime

Early Childhood Development and Crime

Attachment styles formed early in life can impact the potential for criminal behaviour. Studies indicate that children with insecure or disorganised attachment are more likely to exhibit anti-social behaviour.
Parenting styles may also influence the likelihood of criminal behaviour. Authoritarian parenting, characterised by harsh discipline and lack of warmth, increases the risk of children developing anti-social behaviours.
Cognitive development and early intellectual stimulation greatly impact various elements of behaviour, including tendency towards crime. Children lacking cognitive stimulation may be more likely to engage in criminal activities.

Peer influence can shape adolescent behaviours and attitudes significantly. Adolescents associating with peers exhibiting delinquent behaviour are more likely to engage in criminal activity.
Moral reasoning develops significantly during adolescence. A lack of development in moral reasoning or moral disengagement can result in an increased susceptibility to corruption.
Adolescent-limited anti-social behaviour suggests anti-social activities peaking during teenage years and subsiding in adult life. A part of such behaviour is attributed to brain development, particularly the delayed maturation of the prefrontal cortex.

Personality traits, particularly antisocial personality traits, are closely linked with criminal behaviour in adulthood.
Life events such as losing a job, divorce, or financial strain may lead to a higher likelihood of criminal behaviour in adults.
Psychological resilience, the ability to cope with stress, adversity or trauma, influences an individual’s vulnerability towards engaging in criminal behaviour.

Learning theories suggest that criminal behaviour can be learned through observational learning or direct reinforcement.
Environmental risk factors, like poverty or exposure to violence, impact criminal tendencies by creating contexts conducive to crime.
Cultural influences play a major role, with certain cultures or subcultures endorsing values and behaviours in direct conflict with legal norms.