|
Abstract
|
To say that crime is psychopathic and due to gross mental defect does not satisfactorily explain why it is committed. Every crime has a motive, either expressed or repressed. Uncontrolled instinctive urgings appear to be the mainsprings of crime, and they are uncontrolled either because of lack of home training or because of hereditary defects. Sympathy goes a long way if used in time, but where it does not bring the proper results drastic treatment is needed. In the case of serious crime, those who cannot or will not learn to conform to society's demands should be eliminated. Crime cannot be eliminated and can be controlled only by appropriate treatment in the form of punishment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)
|