NCJ Number
84136
Date Published
1982
Length
368 pages
Annotation
This text explains basic psychological concepts in nontechnical language and shows how criminal justice professionals can use these principles in handling crime, criminals, and victims.
Abstract
The first section introduces such principles of psychology as the self-concept, self-fulfilling prophecy, and motivation. It addresses the use of mental health professionals as consultants, attitudes toward authority, understanding perception, the effects of reward and punishment, the influence of social status, and mental illness. Subsequent chapters explore the victimless crimes of prostitution, gambling, suicide, and drug dependence, reviewing arguments for and against enforcing laws in such cases. The discussion of sex crimes, both victimless and violent, contains suggestions on differentiating dangerous from harmless behavior. Also examined are white-collar crimes and the personalities of their perpetrators. A chapter on family and neighborhood crises describes the bases of conflict situations and effective responses, especially for child abuse and neglect and youthful offenders. Finally, the text discusses problems that a changing society poses for criminal justice professionals, with special attention to controlling demonstrators and rioters. The author emphasizes that human service professionals must understand the reasons for behavior, have a realistic self-concept, and believe they can improve a situation. The appendixes present scenarios for handling potential suicides and domestic disturbances, in addition to a glossary. Each chapter includes a summary, discussion questions, and references; an index is provided.