Module 4 - Reading Assignment (1)

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1 Module 4 - Reading Assignment Brianna Peebles Arizona State University CRJ 309: Criminology Professor Allen July 24, 2023
2 Why Do They Do It? Christopher Dorner 1. Christopher Dorner’s case is an excellent example of Robert Agnew’s general strain theory for a number of reasons. In the case of Dorner, the main reason strain theory works is because, as stated by Schram and Tibbetts (2020) “this theoretical framework assumes that people of all social classes and economic positions deal with frustrations that virtually everyone can relate to.” (p. 201). Agnew’s general theory bases on the foundation of anger which is clearly shown to exist in Dorner’s case. This can be clearly seen through the comment that “In this manifesto, he listed many individuals he planned to stalk and kill” (Schram & Tibbetts, 2020, p. 203). An angry individual seeking revenge would not normally go to the extent of staking those they wish to harm. It is because of that we can see just how angry Dorner was by using his training meant for combat situations against those in his community. 2. There are no justifications for the actions taken by Dorner against the LAPD and others listed on his manifesto. Many people experience anger and frustration surrounding the wrongs they feel they have been given, however in those instances, violence is not usually the first step taken. Schram and Tibbetts (2020) bring up an important piece to Agnew’s theory stating “The primary prediction regarding coping mechanisms is that individuals who find ways to deal with their stress and anger in a positive way will no longer be predisposed to commit crime” (p. 203) and those who cannot find a way to cope are more predisposed for criminal acts. While I can understand how upset Dorner was regarding his situation, the idea of controlling emotions should have been engrained deeper in him than anyone else. Because of his military history, he would have been trained on how to handle emotions in extreme situations such as combat. Knowing this, he should have reverted back to his training and found a way to handle the grievances in a way that did not end up with anyone dead.
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