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M
martha horner
15/12/2025
Psychology
gcse criminal psychology
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15 Dec 2025
•
GCSE Criminal Psychology Summary
M
martha horner
@marthahorner_08af5mk
1 / 4
Understanding Criminal Behaviour
Criminal behaviour is basically any act that breaks the law, but it's not as straightforward as you might think. Different types of crimes include violent crimes (physical harm), drug-related offences, acquisitive crimes (stealing), sexual crimes, and antisocial behaviour that distresses others.
Here's the tricky bit - what counts as criminal behaviour is actually a social construct. This means society decides what's acceptable through discussion and agreement. What's considered normal in one culture might be illegal in another, and laws change over time too.
Measuring crime rates is surprisingly complex. We can count crimes reported to police, successful convictions, or use self-report surveys where people anonymously admit to crimes they've committed or experienced. Each method has problems - people might lie due to fear, embarrassment, or not even realising they're victims.
Remember: Crime isn't just about the act itself - intention, damage caused, culture, and timing all matter when defining criminal behaviour.
Social Learning Theory - How We Learn to Be Criminal
Think about how you pick up new behaviours from people around you - social learning theory suggests criminal behaviour works exactly the same way. We learn to break the law by watching others, not because we're born criminals.
The process follows clear steps: we identify with role models (people similar to us or with power), observe their behaviour, then imitate what we've seen. If we get rewarded for this behaviour (directly or by seeing others rewarded), we're likely to repeat it until it becomes part of our personality through internalisation.
Cooper and Mackie's study tested this with 84 children aged 9-11, showing them different video games. Kids who played aggressive games spent longer with aggressive toys afterwards, especially girls. However, boys and girls responded differently, suggesting the theory isn't universal.
The main criticism? If all criminal behaviour is learned, how did the first criminal behaviour ever start? Plus, this theory focuses entirely on nurture whilst ignoring any natural tendencies people might have.
Key insight: Social learning theory explains why crime often runs in families or communities - we copy what we see around us.
Eysenck's Criminal Personality Theory
What if some people are just born more likely to commit crimes? Eysenck's theory suggests criminals share three key personality traits that come from how their brains work differently.
Extraversion means being active and sensation-seeking because extroverts have low brain arousal and need more stimulation. Neuroticism involves being anxious and emotional due to an over-aroused nervous system affecting behaviour. Psychoticism includes aggression and self-centredness caused by excess brain chemicals leading to risky choices.
Unlike social learning theory, Eysenck believed genetics mainly determines criminality, though early childhood experiences can influence it too. This makes it a nature-focused explanation rather than nurture.
However, this theory has major flaws. It assumes all criminals are similar (which seems unlikely), ignores free will by suggesting we can't choose our actions, and doesn't explain why people with these traits actually decide to commit crimes.
Think about it: If personality determines crime, why don't all extroverted, neurotic, or psychotic people become criminals?
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
GCSE Criminal Psychology Summary
M
martha horner
@marthahorner_08af5mk
Ever wondered why some people break the law whilst others don't? Criminal behaviour is fascinating because it's shaped by both what we learn from others and our own personality traits. Understanding these patterns helps us figure out better ways to... Show more
Understanding Criminal Behaviour
Criminal behaviour is basically any act that breaks the law, but it's not as straightforward as you might think. Different types of crimes include violent crimes (physical harm), drug-related offences, acquisitive crimes (stealing), sexual crimes, and antisocial behaviour that distresses others.
Here's the tricky bit - what counts as criminal behaviour is actually a social construct. This means society decides what's acceptable through discussion and agreement. What's considered normal in one culture might be illegal in another, and laws change over time too.
Measuring crime rates is surprisingly complex. We can count crimes reported to police, successful convictions, or use self-report surveys where people anonymously admit to crimes they've committed or experienced. Each method has problems - people might lie due to fear, embarrassment, or not even realising they're victims.
Remember: Crime isn't just about the act itself - intention, damage caused, culture, and timing all matter when defining criminal behaviour.
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Social Learning Theory - How We Learn to Be Criminal
Think about how you pick up new behaviours from people around you - social learning theory suggests criminal behaviour works exactly the same way. We learn to break the law by watching others, not because we're born criminals.
The process follows clear steps: we identify with role models (people similar to us or with power), observe their behaviour, then imitate what we've seen. If we get rewarded for this behaviour (directly or by seeing others rewarded), we're likely to repeat it until it becomes part of our personality through internalisation.
Cooper and Mackie's study tested this with 84 children aged 9-11, showing them different video games. Kids who played aggressive games spent longer with aggressive toys afterwards, especially girls. However, boys and girls responded differently, suggesting the theory isn't universal.
The main criticism? If all criminal behaviour is learned, how did the first criminal behaviour ever start? Plus, this theory focuses entirely on nurture whilst ignoring any natural tendencies people might have.
Key insight: Social learning theory explains why crime often runs in families or communities - we copy what we see around us.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Eysenck's Criminal Personality Theory
What if some people are just born more likely to commit crimes? Eysenck's theory suggests criminals share three key personality traits that come from how their brains work differently.
Extraversion means being active and sensation-seeking because extroverts have low brain arousal and need more stimulation. Neuroticism involves being anxious and emotional due to an over-aroused nervous system affecting behaviour. Psychoticism includes aggression and self-centredness caused by excess brain chemicals leading to risky choices.
Unlike social learning theory, Eysenck believed genetics mainly determines criminality, though early childhood experiences can influence it too. This makes it a nature-focused explanation rather than nurture.
However, this theory has major flaws. It assumes all criminals are similar (which seems unlikely), ignores free will by suggesting we can't choose our actions, and doesn't explain why people with these traits actually decide to commit crimes.
Think about it: If personality determines crime, why don't all extroverted, neurotic, or psychotic people become criminals?
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
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We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Criminology
Most popular content in Psychology
Most popular content
English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user