NCJ Number
77965
Date Published
1980
Length
102 pages
Annotation
Based on hearings and research conducted by a Canadian parliamentary committee in 1977, this report discusses the influences of prenatal, perinatal, and early childhood experiences on the development of violent behavior.
Abstract
Following a history of the committee's activities and an overview of violent crime in Canada, the report examines the prenatal period. Genetic factors are rejected as a principal predictor of criminal behavior, but research has demonstrated that poor diet, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and exceptional emotional stress can cause permanent damage to a fetus. Particular attention is given to high risk parents, usually very young, unmarried women. Hazards accompanying the birth process and premature birth are described, along with recent studies which indicate that development of the mother-child bond is hindered by hospital policies that separate mothers and newborn infants. The report then deals with early childhood experiences which might contribute to antisocial or criminal behavior. The committee found that violence -- psychological injury from emotional deprivation, physical child abuse, and violent acts observed in the streets and the media -- constituted the most direct link to adult criminal behavior. Other factors investigated were minimal brain dysfunction, learning disabilities, hyperactivity, poverty, and criminal or alcoholic parents. Efforts to eliminate child abuse through support services to parents as well as enforcement were strongly recommended. Each section of the report includes a summary and suggestions for government prevention programs. General recommendations focus on areas for future research, the increase in female crime, violence as a part of widespread social malaise, and education programs. Footnotes are provided, lists of witnesses who appeared before the committee and statements submitted by individuals and organizations are appended.