Society today is fascinated by crime. Crime is a hot topic in the media,
so that people are continually exposed to criminal events, portrayals of
those who commit them, and the suffering of victims. Yet the reality of
crime is often very different from how it is portrayed in the media.
Most crime is neither violent nor morbid; most offenders are not
psychopaths, and although prison generally does not work, there may well
be other, less punitive but more constructive interventions that are
actually quite effective. This book exposes some of the most prevalent
myths about crime and criminal behaviour. In addition it provides the
reader with up-to-date knowledge on crime and offending behaviour. It
also highlights the ways in which psychological methods of research and
psychological knowledge can help us to understand criminal behaviour and
the ways that targeted interventions are developed based upon this.
Pakes' and Winstone's Psychology and Crime is essential reading for
students taking courses in the psychology of crime, criminal and
forensic psychology, criminology, and community justice, as well as for
other courses where a knowledge of the complex relationship between
psychology and crime - and its application in practice - is required.
Practitioners and policy-makers will also find it highly informative.
