Psychological Causes

• Mental Illness: Certain mental health conditions may contribute to criminal behaviour, with some disorders increasing the likelihood of offending.
• Personality Disorders: Conditions such as antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder can lead to increased impulsivity, disregard for the rights of others, or a lack of empathy, potentially resulting in criminal activity.
• Compulsive Behaviour: This can factor into crimes such as theft or addiction-related offenses where the individual feels a strong, uncontrollable urge to commit the crime.
• Lack of Empathy: A diminished capability to understand or share the feelings of others can result in a lack of remorse for criminal actions, and a greater propensity for offending.

Sociological Causes

• Poverty and Economic Factors: Individuals in poor socioeconomic conditions may turn to crime out of desperation or as a means of survival.
• Socialization: Negative influences during formative years, such as familial environment or peer pressure, can instill antisocial behaviours and attitudes, increasing the likelihood of criminal involvement.
• Education and Employment Opportunities: Lack of access to quality education and unemployment can lead to criminal activity as alternative means of income and perceived societal exclusion.
• Cultural Values and Beliefs: Certain attitudes or norms within a culture or subculture can potentially encourage or legitimize criminal behaviour.

Biological Causes

• Genetics: Research suggests that genetic factors may influence the predisposition towards certain types of criminal behaviour, though this is often in combination with environmental factors.
• Neurological Deficits: Abnormalities or damage to certain areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex, can influence traits related to impulsivity, aggression, or judgment, which may increase propensity for crime.
• Substance Abuse: The abuse of substances like drugs or alcohol can lead to addiction, impaired judgment, and may fuel criminal activity to sustain the habit.

Environmental Causes

• Family Structure: Disruptive or dysfunctional family environments can contribute to a higher risk of youth offending.
• Community Environment: High-crime neighbourhoods or those with high levels of social disorganisation may normalise crime and provide more opportunities for offending.
• Victimisation: Experiencing abuse or trauma can lead to violent or criminal behaviour in later life as a maladaptive method of coping or revenge.