Trait Theories – Flashcards

Biosocial theory contends that all humans are born with equal potential to learn and achieve.

Strong egos are associated with immaturity, poor social skills, and excessive dependence on others.

The major premise of behavior theory is that people alter their behavior according to the reactions it receives from others.

Individuals who have feelings of inferiority and compensate for them with a drive for superiority have an inferiority complex.

Chemical and mineral imbalance leads to cognitive and learning deficits and problems, and these factors in turn are associated with antisocial behaviors.

The study of brain activity is called neurophysiology.

Latent delinquency is found in youngsters whose personality requires them to seek immediate gratification, consider satisfying their personal needs more important than relating to others, and satisfy instinctive urges without considering right and wrong.

Trait theories can be divided into two major subdivisions: one that stresses psychological functioning and the other that stresses biological make-up.

Social learning theorists view violence as something learned through a process called behavior modeling.

Biophobia is the belief that no serious consideration should be given to biological factors when attempting to understand human nature.

Biosocial criminologists maintain that minimum level of minerals and chemicals are needed for normal brain functioning and growth, especially in the early years of life.

Traditionally, the most important measure of neurophysiological functioning is the electroencephalograph.