Criminology Personal Statement

Studying Criminology and Psychology at University is my goal because I have a deep interest in the criminal mind. I am compelled by the idea of understanding the reasons behind different crimes and different types of criminals, and the similarities and differences criminals share, not only with each other, but with all people. I hope to one day work with the police and aiding in investigations, but also in rehabilitation programs to allow criminals to regain their life, and understand their actions, minds and the consequences and effects that their actions have had, and could potentially have if they reoffend.
My current studies lead on to the course, such as my criminology diploma, in which we have been studying theories of why people commit crime, types of crime, and the differences between criminal and deviant behaviour. This course has also helped develop my understanding of law creation, ethics and the way in which the police and other organisations function.
My particular interests lie in the different theories of why people commit crime, as it not only gives us a greater understanding of the human mind, but also may be the key to creating and developing reliable rehabilitation techniques and courses that would enable offenders to rebuild their lives after sentences, and would reduce cases of reoffenders.
I am also interested in the link between this, the reasons why people commit crimes, and types of crimes themselves, as the types of crimes themselves could be the cause of the crime, such as crimes committed in self-defence as opposed to serial killers who create specific targets, for unprovoked reasons. The links between a person’s mind, and their behaviour and actions, is something that interests me, not only so that I can understand peoples reasons for their actions, but also the way that this understanding could be used to prevent further criminal
actions.
My previous studies in biology and psychology, as well as GCSE’s in science and additional science, have also given me background knowledge into things such as brain reactions, genetics and DNA, as well as individual differences in psychological theories such as biological and social influences, which can also be applied to criminal behaviour.
My current studies in A level English have improved my analytical skills and it has helped my written communication. My studies in psychology, criminology as well as my diploma in photography, have not only utilised my writing skills, but have also allowed me to develop research skills, as all of these subjects have involved research on individuals as well as concepts and theories. Photography and my science studies have also allowed me to develop practical skills, such as completing experiments, and team work, which I have also used throughout my work experience.
My work experience such as photoshoots, catering jobs, Cotswold Farm Park and with a primary school have not only given me the opportunity to meet and work with a variety of different people, but they have also helped me develop keen communication skills, confidence and team work skills. However, through many of my jobs and studies, there have also been individual elements, which have meant I have had to have independence, problem solving, as well as responsibilities for my own area at work, and my own projects and assignments through my courses.
This course is important to me because I feel that it is very relevant in everyday life. Issues such as overcrowding in prisons can effect communities in negative ways. An article that I read on The Howard League for Penal Reform website, stated that sentences were being reduced due to overcrowding, because of this I believe that criminology can lead to new methods of crime prevention to deterrent people from offending, and also could lead to improved rehabilitation schemes which would could make decreasing sentences safer as it could make re-offenses less likely, and I would like to be a part of that improvement.