MODULE:CMY 2601
ASSIGNMENT 1
SEPEMBER 2023.
, Title: Distinguishing Causes, Contributory Factors, Motives, and Triggers as Risk
Assessment Criteria for Reoffending Behavior
Introduction:
Risk assessment plays a crucial role in understanding and predicting reoffending behavior.
To effectively assess this risk, it is important to distinguish between various factors that
contribute to an individual's propensity to reoffend. This essay aims to differentiate
between causes, contributory factors, motives, and triggers as risk assessment criteria for
reoffending behavior, providing examples to illustrate each concept.
DEFINE THE CONCERT
Causes refer to the underlying reasons or root factors that contribute to the development
of reoffending behavior. These are typically deep-seated issues that are responsible for
the initial engagement in criminal activities. Causes can include personal, social, or
environmental factors that influence an individual's decision-making processes. Examples
of causes include:
a) Childhood trauma: Research suggests that individuals who have experienced significant
childhood trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence, may
be more prone to engaging in criminal behavior later in life.
Research has indeed shown a correlation between childhood trauma and an increased risk
of engaging in criminal behavior later in life. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which
encompass various forms of trauma such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse,
neglect, household dysfunction, and witnessing violence, have been extensively studied in
relation to their long-term effects on individuals.
Multiple studies have found a link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior. The
Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACE Study), conducted by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente, revealed a significant association
between ACEs and a higher likelihood of engaging in criminal activities. The study found
that individuals with a higher number of ACEs had an increased risk of various behavioral
problems, including criminal behavior, substance abuse, and violence.
Childhood trauma can have profound effects on a person's psychological, emotional, and
social development. It can disrupt healthy coping mechanisms, impair emotional regulation,
and contribute to the development of maladaptive behaviors. These factors, combined
with the long-lasting impact of trauma on brain development, can increase the risk of
engaging in criminal behavior.
It is important to note that while childhood trauma is a risk factor, it does not guarantee
that an individual will become involved in criminal activities. Many factors contribute to
criminal behavior, including individual characteristics, social environment, and access to
support systems. Additionally, it's essential to consider that not all individuals who
experience childhood trauma will exhibit criminal behavior. Many individuals who have
experienced trauma go on to lead healthy, productive lives.
Efforts to address the connection between childhood trauma and criminal behavior often
involve trauma-informed interventions, early prevention programs, and comprehensive
support systems to mitigate the negative effects of trauma and reduce the risk of criminal
involvement.
