Theories of Criminal Behavior

1. Module Title: Theories of Criminal Behavior
2. Module Prefix/Number: CRJ 415
3. Credit Hours: Three (3)
4. Description:

   This course provides students with an introduction to the theories surrounding Criminal Behavior. The topics covered will focus on social constructs, developmental lifespan, victimization, and understand the behaviors, actions, and patterns of criminals. Topics covered in the class include: repeat offenders (numerous offense-types will be covered; the differences between organized and disorganized crimes; antisocial personality disorder and its impact on the criminal mind; the differences between mass murder, spree murder, and serial murder; violent criminals; sex offenders; and substance abuse

5. Student Learning Outcomes:
   Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

   LO1: Demonstrate an understanding of the major theories of criminal behavior.	1.1 Understanding the major concepts and theories that are of interest to criminal offending. 1.2 Examining how individual differences in social, cultural and historical context may influence criminal behaviour.
   LO2: Demonstrate an understanding of theoretical application of criminal behavior	2.1 Demonstrate an ability to utilise critical-thinking that includes open-mindedness and the scientific process 2.2 Understand how theory aids in the practical application in real-world situations.
   LO3: Analyse social impact on offending behavior and victimization.	3.1 Understand the psychological dynamics of violent offenders, and the different types of victims.
   LO4: Critically explore the psychology behind sex and substance abuse offenders.	4.1 Demonstrate an understanding on the psychological dynamics of sexual offending and substance abuse.

6. Grading Scale: Your letter grade in this course will be determined by calculating your score on all assignments and exams as a percentage of the total possible score, on a standard grading scale:
   

   Your Letter Grade	Your Score as % of Total
   A	90–100
   B	80-89
   C	70-79
   D	60-69
   F	0-59

   Assignments 40%

   As part of the requirements, students must complete short assignments based on these studies. There will be 2 assignments, each attracting 20% of total course grade.

   Assignment (Essay) 20%

   Students are also required to turn in an essay assignment.

   Guidelines for the essay assignment:

   • Word limit: 1500 – 2500
   • The assignment should be typed using Times New Roman, 12-point size, double spaced, and 1″ margins.
   • The assignment should be edited for spelling and grammar.
   • References to be provided using the APA guidelines.

   Exam 40%

   There will be a Final exam. The exam will be based on material covered in the textbook readings and lecture notes.

• Course Outline
  

  Topic
  Crime and Criminology
  The Nature and Extent of Crime
  Victims and Victimization Rational Choice Theory
  Trait Theories Social Structure Theories
  Socialization and Society Social Conflict, Critical Criminology, and Restorative Justice
  Life Course, Latent Trait, and Trajectory
  Interpersonal Violence Terrorism
  Sex and Substance Abuse

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