Image for criminological positivism

criminological positivism

Criminological positivism is a perspective that views criminal behavior as the result of biological, psychological, or social factors beyond an individual's control. It suggests that factors such as genetics, mental health, or environment influence why people commit crimes. This approach emphasizes scientific methods to understand these underlying causes, aiming to identify and address them through tailored interventions. Unlike classical theories that focus on free will and rational choice, positivism seeks to explain crime through empirical evidence, often supporting rehabilitative strategies rather than solely punitive measures.