While There Is Evidence Suggesting an Association Between Mental Disturbance

question 68

Essay

While there is evidence suggesting an association between mental disturbance and delinquency, there are intervening variables that may account for the association.  List and describe these factors.  Do you think these factors are enough to question the validity of the psychodynamic theory?  Support your position.

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Definitions:

Incarceration

The state of being confined in prison as a form of punishment following conviction of a crime.

Conflict-Theory

A theoretical framework in sociology that views social life as a competition among groups for limited resources.

Feminist Understandings

Interpretations or perspectives grounded in feminism, which emphasize equality between sexes and critique social structures that perpetuate gender inequalities.

Deviance

Behaviors or actions that violate social norms, including formally enacted rules as well as informal understandings of acceptable behavior.