Psychiatric Model. Summary
As a theory of crime causation, the Psychiatric Model can be considered one of the most well-known frameworks. Based on the crucial tenets of Freud’s works, the identified framework serves as the tool for detailing the changes in the human psyche that are likely to lead to deviations in one’s behavior and, therefore, eventually, to criminal behavior development (Caplan & Jennings, 2013). According to Freud’s theory, the “it” component incorporates the biologic, or intrinsic, elements of one’s personality, whereas the “ego” constituent of one’s personality implies a combination of the influences of the society and the intrinsic characteristics of an individual. Finally, the “superego” element includes the elements of personality acquired as a result of the experience received during the communication process. The conscience and the ideal self are the two primary systems that the superego incorporates (O’Donohue & Levenskys, 2004).
Explaining Sex Crimes. Ted Bundy
Applying the theory to Ted Bundy’s case, one may assume that the development of the tendencies toward criminal behavior in Bundy can be explained as a result of a combination of his biological makeup and the societal effects that he experienced when growing up. For instance, the foundation for the development of the criminal tendencies that he would display in his adult life was built when the “it” component of his personality was designed, as Freud’s theory suggests (Akers, 2013).
The further step in the evolution of Bundy’s personality and the appearance of the “ego” element was the point at which his personality started being shaped by the factors that he was exposed to as a child, teenager, and young adult. Particularly, the supposition regarding Bundy having been exposed to the abusive influence of his grandfather needs to be listed among the factors that shaped his ego significantly (Territo & Glover, 2013).
Finally, the development of the superego component – or, to be more accurate, the impairment thereof – could also be observed as Ted was exposed to the violent treatment of his grandfather. Furthermore, the social ostracism that he subjected himself to, along with his failure to build friendship-based relationships with any of his peers, can be viewed as the manifestation of significant issues in the “superego” development (Michie, 2001).
Offender Treatment and Rehabilitation
As stressed above, Freud’s theory suggests that criminals are largely driven by impairments in their social and psychological development. On the one hand, the identified assumption implies that, at some point in their progress, criminals are unlikely to be able to change. On the other hand, the theory also implies that a series of interventions may have a positive effect on the criminal. To be more accurate, the theory puts a very heavy emphasis on the importance of social interactions as the primary tool in managing the criminal’s condition (Levinson, 2002).
Using the Theory to Investigate Sex Crimes
The theory can be applied to manage sex crimes and even bring the rates of the identified types of offense to a minimum. By investigating the background of each potential offender and isolating the factors that may cause or may have caused them to deviate from the norm, one will be able to prove their guilt or even prevent potential crimes from occurring. Therefore, the prerequisites for a safer environment can be created. It would be wrong to assume that the Freudian Model provides an all-embracing explanation of crimes, yet it is likely to serve as the basis for managing some of the sexual offenses.
References
Akers, R. L. (2013). Criminological theories: Introduction and evaluation. New York, NY: Routledge.
Caplan, A. L., & Jennings, B. (2013). Darwin, Marx and Freud: Their influence on moral theory. New York, NY: Springer Science & Business Media.
Levinson, D. (2002). Encyclopedia of crime and punishment. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.
Michie, J. (2001). Reader’s guide to the social sciences. New York, NY: Routledge.
O’Donohue, W. T., & Levenskys, E. (2004). Handbook of forensic psychology: Resource for mental health and legal professionals. New York, NY: Academic Press.
Territo, L., & Glover, N. (2013). Criminal investigation of sex trafficking in America. Chicago, IL: CRC Press.