Psychological analysis of criminal behavior

Psychology of criminal behavior represents an active intention of a person to achieve realization of his or her criminal goal. It is expressed in consciously motivated actions aimed at achieving a specific goal, regardless of whether it corresponds to the socially dangerous consequences or not. The psyche is the central link between individual actions of a particular person and is involved in criminal activity. The unity in the regulation of these actions and behavior in general is mediated by the psyche. Our work reveals specific features of the psychological approach to the analysis of criminal behavior, the generalization of the psychological explanations of this behavior, current understanding of its factors and mechanisms, as well as the influence of internal and external factors on human behavior. Therefore, law enforcement officers should never ignore the behavior of a person, his statements, and interests when carrying out operational investigative activities. The external form of behavior of mentally ill subjects usually does not correspond to the norm; however, in some cases it does, and even professional competence could be retained. But explanations of their behavior, in particular their motives, sometimes raise doubts on their mental health. It is always important to understand the essence of a person’s act and its social and psychological significance.