Explanations for crime and anti-social behaviour: Practice Questions

Which factor affecting the reliability of eye-witness memory describes a witness's tendency to focus on a specific threatening object, thereby reducing their ability to recall the perpetrator's physical features?

In a cognitive interview, a witness might be asked to 'change perspective' (e.g., describe the event from the viewpoint of another witness). What is the theoretical justification for this specific technique?

In criminological psychology, the self-fulfilling prophecy is a social explanation for crime. Which of the following best describes the final stage of this process?

In Experiment 1 of the classic study by Loftus and Palmer (1974), participants estimated the speed of vehicles in filmed accidents. Which of the following correctly identifies the verb that resulted in the highest mean speed estimate and the theoretical conclusion reached by the researchers?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often used as a treatment for offenders. What is the primary focus of CBT in a forensic setting?

Briefly describe how the attractiveness of a defendant can influence jury decision-making according to psychological research.

Evaluate the use of mock jury research in criminological psychology, specifically focusing on how the lack of consequentiality in a simulated environment affects the ecological validity of the verdict.

Explain how social learning from the media can lead to the acquisition of criminal behavior in children, making reference to vicarious reinforcement.

Leo is a 19-year-old who has been detained for repeated acts of theft. Growing up, Leo spent most of his time with an older group of peers who often boasted about their criminal activities. Additionally, Leo was frequently exposed to television programs that depicted successful criminals as heroic figures. Following a clinical assessment, Leo was noted to display impulsivity and a lack of empathy, symptoms often associated with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD).

(a) Using Social Learning Theory, explain how Leo’s social environment and media exposure could have contributed to his offending behavior. (3)

(b) Evaluate the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a method for treating offenders like Leo, considering both its strengths and limitations. (5)