Revisiting the Affect-Cognition Link in Crime Decisions

• In Event: Emotions and Ethical Evaluation in Criminal Decision-Making: Insights from Immersive Technologies

Abstract

The decision to engage in crime and violence is profoundly influenced by emotions. Despite increased research on emotions in other disciplines, criminologists have not fully integrated emotional theories into models of choice. Through immersive 360° video experiments, we effectively elicit anger and fear during simulated conflicts of interpersonal violence. Drawing upon appraisal theory and dual process models, we illustrate how these emotions prompt distinct situational evaluations. Anger fosters feelings of confidence and control thereby reducing perceived risk, whereas fear elicits the opposite response. Our findings have significant theoretical and practical implications for understanding and addressing criminal behavior.

Author

• Tim Barnum, Sam Houston State University