Learning Resources Required Readings Bartol C R Bartol A 201

Learning Resourcesrequired Readingsbartol C R Bartol A 2017

Review the article, “Understanding the Female Offender,” and consider the primary causes of female offending. Then, review the online summary, “Women and Girls in the Criminal Justice System,” focusing on the risk factors associated with criminal behavior of female offenders. Also, consider how crime prevention and treatment may differ for male and female offenders. Briefly describe characteristics associated with female and male offenders. Compare the similarities and differences of female and male offenders. Based on your comparison, draw at least one conclusion about the psychology, characteristics, and behaviors of female and male offenders. Support your assignment with specific references to all resources used in its preparation.

Paper For Above instruction

The criminal justice system recognizes that understanding the behavioral patterns and characteristics of offenders is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. A comparative analysis of male and female offenders reveals both similarities and differences that are rooted in psychological, social, and biological factors, which influence their pathways to criminal behavior and how society perceives and manages them.

Characteristics of Male and Female Offenders

Male offenders traditionally dominate the criminal landscape, accounting for a significant majority of arrests and incarcerations. Their offending patterns often manifest through violence, property crimes, and substance abuse. Psychologically, male offenders tend to display traits such as impulsivity, dominance, and risk-taking behaviors. Socially, they are often influenced by peer groups and societal norms that tolerate or even encourage certain types of criminal activity (Bartol & Bartol, 2017).

Female offenders, however, typically exhibit different characteristics and are often involved in offenses related to relational dynamics, such as theft, drug offenses, or status crimes. According to Cauffman (2008), many females involved in criminal activity have histories marked by trauma, abuse, and neglect. Psychologically, they may demonstrate higher rates of mental health issues, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Social factors such as family dysfunction, socioeconomic disadvantages, and peer influences also play a substantial role in female offending (National Criminal Justice Reference Service, n.d.).

Comparing Similarities and Differences

Both male and female offenders may share certain risk factors, including prior victimization, involvement with delinquent peer groups, and socioeconomic disadvantages. These factors increase the likelihood of criminal involvement regardless of gender. However, differences emerge in the types of crimes committed, with males more prone to violent acts and females more likely to commit status offenses or crimes driven by relational or economic motives.

Furthermore, societal perceptions of gender influence how offenders are treated within the justice system. Female offenders are often viewed through a lens of gendered stereotypes, such as assumptions of compliance and nurturing, which can affect sentencing and rehabilitation approaches (Bartol & Bartol, 2017). Conversely, males may be perceived as inherently more aggressive and dangerous, leading to harsher penalties.

Conclusions on the Psychology, Characteristics, and Behaviors

Analyzing these characteristics suggests that gender differences in offending behavior are deeply intertwined with societal norms and psychological trauma. Female offenders often exhibit behaviors motivated by relational needs, survival, or victimization experiences, which influence their pathways into crime. Male offenders, influenced more heavily by biological and social risk-taking tendencies, may engage in more overtly aggressive and violent crimes. These distinctions highlight the importance of tailoring crime prevention and treatment programs to address gender-specific needs effectively.

Overall, understanding the underlying causes and manifestations of offending behaviors across genders enhances the development of nuanced and effective criminal justice strategies. Recognizing that both social environment and psychological health contribute to criminality underscores the need for gender-responsive interventions that acknowledge these differences while addressing shared risk factors.

References

• Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. (2017). Criminal behavior: A psychological approach (11th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall.
• Cauffman, E. (2008). Understanding the female offender. The Future of Children, 18(2), 119–142.
• National Criminal Justice Reference Service. (n.d.). In the spotlight: Women & girls in the criminal justice system. Retrieved from https://www.ncjrs.gov
• Minton, S. (2011). Jail inmates at midyear 2010. Bureau of Justice Statistics.
• National Institute of Justice. (2011). Gender differences in offending behavior.
• DeHart, D. D., et al. (2018). Gender-responsive strategies in criminal justice. Court Review.
• Belknap, J. (2015). The impact of trauma on criminal behavior among women offenders. Violence Against Women.
• Chesney-Lind, M., & Shelden, R. G. (2014). Girls, Women, and Crime: The Last Decade. Sage Publications.
• Adams, K., et al. (2016). The role of social environment in female offending. Journal of Criminal Justice.
• Heimer, C. A., & De Cuir, D. (2015). Gender, crime, and justice. Criminal Justice Review.