OUTLAWS

Outlaws



Outlaws

Introduction

Outlaw is defined as someone who has committed a crime. Psychologists have come up with many theories and reasons why people commit crimes. The two main explanations are rooted in genetic and environmental factors, which refers to the nature and nurture debate. Studies have been conducted to explain the behavior outside the law (Aquinas, 1988). Some suggest that criminals are born; they are studies of twins and adoption. On the other hand there are also studies that have been conducted to show that criminals are made by society, which include social learning theory and behavior of labeling. These are examples used to support both sides of the argument to determine if the criminals are born or made.

Some biologists, medical researchers and psychologists have come to the hypothesis that unlawful behavior is inherited as other medical problems such as high cholesterol and heart disease.

Outlaw Rehabilitation

Inmates are some of the most "maladjusted" people in society. Most of the inmates have had very little discipline or too much, come from broken homes and have no self-esteem. They are very insecure and are "at war with themselves and with society". Most inmates did not learn moral values or learn to follow the rules every day. Furthermore, when the majority of offenders are labeled criminals they enter the stage of secondary deviation. They admit they are criminals or believe it when they enter the stage of secondary deviation (Aquinas¸1988).

Then, some believe that if you want to rehabilitate outlaws we must do more than send them to jail. For example, we could give them an opportunity to acquire job skills, thus improving the chances that inmates will become productive citizens upon release. Programs should aim to change those who want change. Those who are taught to produce useful goods and be productive are "likely to ...