Essay On Developmental Criminology

Developmental criminology can be best defined as the study of criminal behavior as it pertains to age, as well as how an individual’s behaviors evolve as they develop, or age over time. The primary component of the developmental theory of criminology is that it has a focus on criminal offending and how those acts fluctuate or vary over time in people and the circumstances that may increase the likelihood of it occurring. Theorists will question whether there is a change in a behavior, or if it continues as one develops? Are there any significant patterns of behavior over time? Unlike the other theories we have discussed so far in class, this form of theory has a focus on how criminal behavior transforms from an individual’s conception to their death. This theory also follows the idea that there are different biological,
Something I have come to question about this theory is the following: if one begins acting out at a young age due to these factors that drive them to deviant behavior, doesn’t that affect them in the future to act out or worse (criminal behavior)? In other words, if a person begins criminal behavior from a young age, won’t that affect them as they continue to progress throughout their lifespan? (which some can argue would make this theory a waste of time!)
This theory has a focus on longitudinal research, which is a form of research that focuses on a group of subjects over a long period of time. One of the primary limitations of using this form of research is that the results cannot be generalized because each age cohort will have different backgrounds. One cannot compare baby-boomers to the technology-dependent, newer generation. Other factors that can make an influence is race, ethnicity, religion, and the list