Links between significant childhood trauma, abuse, and psychological disorders to criminal behavior in adulthood
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Authors
Robinson, Addy Ann
Issue Date
2007
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Forensic sciences
Alternative Title
Abstract
Understanding criminal behavior and where it derives from is of prime importance in forensic science. This study employed a quantitative research design to get an in depth understanding of human behaviors relative to the three research hypotheses being investigated. To accept the hypotheses, statistical analysis was performed on four previously conducted studies, to find statistical data to support the hypotheses. An analysis of those studies revealed a large percentage of the criminals' studied experienced abuse, trauma or negative family environments during childhood; however, there was not enough data to definitively conclude that the trauma or negative family environment was the cause of their adult-criminal behaviors. The data did support the hypothesis stating that a person who experiences trauma or abuse during childhood will develop psychological disorders in adolescence or adulthood. By using these studies and doing more in depth research, law enforcement and psychologist can use preventative measures against child abuse, which may reduce crime in the future.