There are many theories
available to criminologists to help explain, measure
and attempt to understand criminal behaviour and the occurrence of crimes. This
essay will take an in-depth look at one of these theories, the bio-behavioural
reward dominance theory and seek to apply this to the case study of Edward ‘Ned’
Kelly, a noteworthy pre-federation Australian criminal, and his crime of murder.
Firstly, it will cover the major components of the theory and how they are
defined, as well as what, if any, major
assumptions are taken. It will then
identify the case study subject in more detail and expand on the unique
bio-behavioural differences of Kelly that are
attributed to increased criminal risk factors. This essay will draw
evidence of these behavioural markers from both his early criminal activity and
non-criminal activity and use empirical research to support the link of these
bio-behavioural differences and criminal activity. It will then examine how
these behavioural traits link to crime
and explore the key crime committed under the lenses of reward dominance
theory. Before concluding, this essay will evaluate the strengths and
weaknesses of the reward dominance theory and discuss what possible
shortcomings there might be. It will then conclude by summarising the
bio-behavioural markers that show how reward dominance theory applies to
Kelly’s act of committing murder.