43 Chapter 11 Discussion Questions
- Integrated theories combine biological, psychological, and social factors to explain criminal behavior. In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of using an integrated approach compared to relying on a single theoretical perspective (such as biological or social learning theory alone)? Provide examples to support your argument.
- Both the Risk Needs Responsivity (RNR) Model and the Good Lives Model (GLM) aim to reduce reoffending but differ in their approaches. Which model do you believe would be more effective in promoting long-term rehabilitation and why? Consider motivation, cultural relevance, and the balance between addressing risks and building strengths in your response
- Trauma-informed care shifts the focus from “What is wrong with this person?” to “What has this person experienced?” How might adopting a trauma-informed approach change the way the criminal justice system responds to offenders? Discuss potential benefits and challenges of using trauma-informed practices in policing, corrections, or rehabilitation programs.
- Moffitt’s Developmental Taxonomy distinguishes between life-course-persistent and adolescent-limited offenders. What social or policy interventions do you think could prevent children with early behavioral difficulties from developing into life-course-persistent offenders? How early should intervention begin, and who should be responsible for implementing it?
- The General Aggression Model (GAM) suggests that aggression is influenced by personal and situational factors that interact in the moment. Considering this, how might exposure to media violence, stress, or adverse environments shape aggressive behavior differently across individuals? Do you think GAM adequately accounts for premeditated or planned acts of violence? Why or why not?
- Risk assessment tools have been criticized for cultural bias and a lack of validity across diverse populations. How can the criminal justice system balance the need for evidence-based assessment while ensuring fairness, cultural sensitivity, and accuracy when evaluating individuals from marginalized or Indigenous communities? What changes would you propose?