What is Criminal Behavior?

Behind every crime large or small, one question remains the same. Why did the criminal do it? It’s this core question that represents the essence of criminal behavior, and it’s one of the most difficult cases to solve. To figure out the motivation behind crime, criminal behavior professionals use a variety of resources and techniques to answer this difficult question.

Investigations begin on a larger scale, with professionals studying why crime happens in the first place. They examine the history of crime, the sociological, biological, psychological and economic factors that contribute to crime. Theories are developed and tested using research, and data to support a hypothesis. The type of crime is studied, the evidence, the relationship between the criminals and their victims, and finally the factors associated with criminal behavior are examined. These include family life, personality, disorders, health, substance abuse, sexual disorders, age, gender and more.

The study of criminal behavior plays an important role in American Justice System. Portland State University’s online Criminal Behavior Certificate Program is designed to help you increase your knowledge of this unique field while expanding your career potential. Other programs such as PSU’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice provide a broader field of study with electives in criminal behavior.