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1. Provide an explanation of how a high-risk disorganised family system may lead to criminal
behaviour by family members.
Introduction
A family system plays a critical role in shaping an individual's behavior, attitudes, and interactions
with society. When a family system is disorganized and high-risk, it can significantly contribute to
the likelihood of family members engaging in criminal behavior. This essay explores the relationship
between high-risk disorganized family systems and the propensity for criminal activities, using
theoretical perspectives and empirical examples.
Definition of High-Risk Disorganized Family Systems
A high-risk disorganized family system is characterized by instability, lack of structure, inconsistent
parenting, and poor communication. Such families often experience economic hardship, substance
abuse, domestic violence, and a lack of emotional support. These factors can create an environment
where children and adolescents are more susceptible to deviant behaviors and criminal activities.
Factors Contributing to Criminal Behavior
Lack of Supervision and Inconsistent Parenting - In high-risk disorganized families,
parental supervision is often lacking. This can lead to children engaging in unsupervised
activities that may include delinquency. Inconsistent parenting, where rules and disciplinary
actions are unpredictable, can also lead to confusion about acceptable behaviors. For instance,
children who do not receive consistent consequences for their actions may not learn the
boundaries of acceptable behavior, increasing the likelihood of criminal activities.
Exposure to Violence and Substance Abuse - Children raised in environments where
domestic violence and substance abuse are prevalent may normalize these behaviors. Exposure
to such environments can lead to emotional and psychological trauma, increasing the risk of
developing aggressive or antisocial behaviors. Moreover, substance abuse within the family
can lead to neglect and reduced parental involvement, further exacerbating the risk of
delinquency.
Economic Hardship and Stress - Economic instability is a common feature of high-risk
disorganized family systems. Financial stress can lead to a lack of resources for education,
healthcare, and other essential services, contributing to feelings of hopelessness and frustration.
In some cases, individuals may turn to crime as a means of coping with or escaping from
financial difficulties. For example, economic desperation can lead to theft, drug dealing, or
other illegal activities as a source of income.
Psychological and Emotional Neglect - High-risk disorganized families often fail to provide
adequate emotional support, leading to feelings of neglect and low self-esteem in children.
Emotional neglect can result in attachment disorders, where individuals struggle to form
healthy relationships and may resort to criminal behavior as a way of seeking attention or
validation. Additionally, the lack of emotional support can lead to mental health issues, such as
depression or anxiety, which are often linked to increased criminal behavior.
