The Psychology Behind Law-Breaking Decisions

People are influenced to break the law for a variety of reasons, and it is often a combination of factors that lead to criminal behaviour. From mental illness and desperation to a lack of self-control or support, there are many personal reasons why someone might break the law. Additionally, peer pressure and the environment in which a person is raised can also play a role in influencing criminal behaviour. Sometimes, people are unaware that their actions are illegal, and other times, they may be seeking excitement or acting out of anger, greed, or revenge. Understanding the complex interplay of these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent and address criminal behaviour.

Desperation and lack of opportunities

Desperation and a lack of opportunities are often cited as key factors that can influence people to break the law. This can be seen in areas with high poverty rates, which tend to have higher rates of crime. People in these areas may feel a sense of hopelessness and desperation, believing they have no other options or opportunities to improve their circumstances. This can lead to criminal activity as a means of survival or a way to escape their current situation.

For example, in Philadelphia, the city with the highest poverty rate among US cities with 1 million or more residents, there is a clear link between poverty and homicide rates. The city's Police Commissioner, Richard Ross, acknowledged the role of poverty in contributing to violent crime: "People, when they are mired in a sense of hopelessness, they tend to see no way out of their circumstances. Desperate people do desperate things."

Additionally, a lack of job opportunities and stable economic structures can push people towards criminal activity. A study by Christopher Blattman of Columbia University and Jeannie Annan from the International Rescue Committee found that providing job training, money, or supplies to start legitimate work, and employment opportunities can help curb repeat offenses, even among those most at risk for illegal activity. The assurance of stable and marginally higher earnings can be particularly effective in reducing criminal activity.

Furthermore, a lack of opportunities and skills can be a significant factor in influencing people to break the law. In Philadelphia, for instance, many unemployed individuals lack the necessary skills for available jobs, leading to a sense of hopelessness and desperation. This can create a "fertile ground for criminal exploitation," as described by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.

While economic desperation can be a factor in influencing people to break the law, it is important to note that it is not the sole determinant of criminal behavior. Other factors, such as social and environmental influences, genetic predispositions, and mental health, also play a role in an individual's decision to engage in criminal activity.

Mental illness

Firstly, it is crucial to dispel the misconception that individuals with mental illnesses are inherently more prone to violence and aggression. This perception, often fuelled by media portrayals, contributes to the stigmatisation of individuals with psychiatric disorders. In reality, extensive data suggests that people with mental illnesses are more likely to be victims of violent crimes than perpetrators.

However, specific psychiatric conditions can elevate the risk of an individual engaging in criminal behaviour. For instance, research indicates that patients with untreated severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, may exhibit increased violent tendencies if they do not receive adequate treatment. Additionally, active delusions, long-standing paranoia, and comorbid substance use disorders can further heighten this risk.

Furthermore, societal factors play a significant role in the intersection between mental illness and criminality. The deinstitutionalisation of mental health patients since the 1960s has resulted in many individuals being homeless and without access to proper care, increasing their contact with law enforcement and the criminal justice system. This population is often arrested for minor infractions, such as jaywalking or wandering, and faces challenges in navigating the legal system due to their mental health status.

Additionally, the criminal justice system itself can contribute to the overrepresentation of individuals with mental illnesses within it. Due to limited resources and inadequate training among court personnel, individuals with mental illnesses may be treated as criminals, arrested, charged, and incarcerated for prolonged periods.

It is also important to consider that mental illness can impair an individual's ability to understand the consequences of their actions or discern between right and wrong. In such cases, the concept of criminal responsibility comes into play. In some jurisdictions, individuals may be found "not criminally responsible" for their actions if their mental illness directly influenced their judgement during the commission of a crime. However, this determination is made by a judge or jury, and the accused must provide compelling evidence of their mental state.

In conclusion, while mental illness can influence individuals to break the law, it is crucial to approach this topic with nuance. The relationship between mental illness and criminality is complex and multifaceted, involving a range of biological, psychological, and societal factors. Effectively addressing this issue requires comprehensive mental health policies, increased access to treatment, and improved understanding among law enforcement and judicial entities.

Genetics

The study of how genetics influences human behaviour is known as behavioural genetics. Behavioural genetics has shown that human behaviour is subject to genetic variations, and that most reliably measured psychological characteristics are influenced to some degree by genes. Behavioural genetics studies have also shown that the way one experiences stressful life events, and even personal aspects of individuals, such as spirituality and political ideology, are affected to an extent by genes.

Behavioural genetics studies have also been used to study the influence of genetics on family relationships. For example, genetic influences on parenting behaviour can be understood by examining the similarities and differences in adult twins' parenting styles. The parenting styles of adult twins—as measured by positivity, negativity, and monitoring of their children—were more highly correlated for monozygotic (MZ) twins (who are genetically identical) than dizygotic (DZ) twins (who share only about 50% of their genes).

Genes influence each individual’s behavioural and psychological characteristics, including intellectual ability, personality, and risk for mental illness—all of which have a bearing on both parents and children within a family. The transmission of genes from parent to child is one important link that will lead to similarities between the behaviour of a parent and a child. For example, to the extent that genes predispose an individual toward aggressive behaviour, parents and children will show similarities in this area of behaviour.

However, it is important to note that genes typically account for no more than one-half to two-thirds of the variation seen in most individuals' psychological traits. Most environmental influences are based on individual experiences and exposures that are not shared by family members. This implies that most observed resemblance among family members is a function of their genetic similarity, not their shared experiences.

Risk-taking and lack of self-control

Risk-taking and a lack of self-control are significant factors in influencing individuals to break the law. People with low self-control tend to be impulsive, inconsiderate of others, and prone to taking risks. They often overlook the long-term consequences of their actions and are attracted to short-term excitement. This can manifest in various criminal and antisocial behaviours, such as criminal offending, smoking, drinking, gambling, and cheating.

Low self-control is also associated with a higher likelihood of police encounters, particularly multiple stops and stops in specific locations like schools. Individuals with low self-control may present themselves in ways that increase their chances of attracting law enforcement attention, such as through impulsive behaviour or a negative self-presentation. Additionally, low self-control can lead to negative attitudes towards law enforcement, resulting in defiant or disrespectful behaviour during police encounters, which may escalate the situation.

The development of self-control is influenced by various factors, including genetics, parenting, neuropsychological deficits, nutrition, sleep deprivation, and peer relationships. Effective child-rearing practices, such as strong parental attachments, close supervision, and correction of antisocial behaviour, can instil self-control in children. However, the origins of self-control are complex and multifaceted, and it remains a vital ingredient in health, wealth, and public safety.

Self-control can be strengthened and improved over time with consistent exercise, similar to a muscle. Techniques such as counteractive self-control, imagery, and operant conditioning can be used to improve self-control. However, overuse of self-control in the short term can lead to depletion, impacting an individual's ability to regulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviour effectively.

Influence of family and peers

Family and peers can have a significant influence on a person's decision to break the law. While it is often assumed that peer pressure is the primary reason for criminal activity among young people, studies have shown that it is usually just one of many factors. However, it is still a contributing factor that cannot be ignored.

Family Influence

The influence of family on a person's decision to break the law can be complex and multifaceted. Family dynamics, such as the presence of a criminal parent or sibling, can normalise criminal behaviour and make it seem like a viable option. For example, a child may witness a parent shoplifting to provide for the family and, as a result, develop the idea that breaking the law is acceptable under certain circumstances. Additionally, a family member's criminal behaviour can serve as a roadmap for the child, making it easier for them to engage in similar activities.

Furthermore, family influence can also be indirect. For instance, a child from a low-income family may turn to illegal activities as a means of achieving financial stability or obtaining desired items that are otherwise unattainable. In such cases, the family's socioeconomic status and the child's perception of their family's needs can influence their decision to break the law.

Peer Influence

Peer influence often comes into play when individuals want to fit in or gain acceptance within their social group. Young people, in particular, may engage in illegal activities to conform to their peers' behaviours and norms. This is especially true when they are in the company of these peers, as the pressure to conform can be more intense and immediate. For example, a teenager who does not usually drink alcohol may be more inclined to do so at a party where everyone else is drinking. In this case, the setting and the desire to fit in with their peers influence their decision to engage in underage drinking.

It is important to note that peer pressure is not always a direct or explicit force. Sometimes, it can be more subtle, such as when an individual hears about their friends engaging in illegal activities and feels pressured to do the same. This type of influence is often driven by a desire to maintain or improve one's social status within the peer group. Additionally, peers can also directly encourage or pressure each other to break the law, such as when a friend pressures another to steal an item they desire.

In conclusion, while family and peer influence are significant factors in an individual's decision to break the law, they are rarely the sole reason for criminal activity. Other personal, social, and environmental factors also play a role. However, understanding the influence of family and peers can help in developing effective strategies to prevent and address youth crime.

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