Psychopathy and resiliency in youth criminal offending across the lifespan: A neurobiological overview

This research study takes the form of a literature review that provides a foundation of current knowledge of psychopathy and resiliency in youth offenders. Child development and the importance of sensitive periods and possible life trajectories based on negative or positive influences during development are explored. The implications of child maltreatment on a neurobiological level is a focus throughout this paper to help aid in the explanation of psychopathy and its tendencies relating to crime. The analysis of brain architecture is discussed with possible relationships in connection to psychopathy or resilience, with the use of evidence through brain imaging, in relation to changes that are observed in individuals who experienced childhood maltreatment. In terms of future research, the possibility of developing targeted treatment efforts could be created to treat the root cause of psychopathy more precisely and promote resiliency, such as identifying abnormal brain structure and function. Finally, the implications of such a study are demonstrated to be crucial in continuing efforts to reduce childhood maltreatment by recognizing, understanding, and educating the general population in its possible detrimental lifespan consequences, with the ultimate goal of reducing crime and helping those who may not have a voice.