Presentation Abstract
Presentation Abstract
Student's Name: Alioune Diaw '25
Co-registrant Names:
Type of Presentation: Research Paper
Presentation Title: "Aaron Hernandez criminological theories"
Abstract:
This paper explores Hernandez’s criminal behavior through the lens of two criminological theories: Social Learning Theory and General Strain Theory. Social Learning Theory suggests that Hernandez's exposure to violence from an early age, particularly his father’s abuse and his later association with criminal influences, shaped his behavioral tendencies. General Strain Theory posits that the cumulative stressors in his life—including childhood trauma, the pressure of hiding his sexual identity, and the loss of his father—contributed to his criminal actions as a maladaptive response to strain.
By analyzing Hernandez’s life within these theoretical frameworks, this paper highlights the complex interplay between social environment, personal trauma, and biological factors in shaping criminal behavior.
Aaron Hernandez, a former NFL player for the New England Patriots, experienced a turbulent life marked by childhood trauma, exposure to violence, and neurological damage from repeated head injuries. Despite his athletic success, Hernandez struggled with behavioral issues, social and economic challenges, and personal identity conflicts. His life took a tragic turn when he was convicted of the murder of Odin Lloyd and later committed suicide in prison. Posthumous analysis revealed that he suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disease linked to aggression and cognitive impairment.
This paper explores Hernandez’s criminal behavior through the lens of two criminological theories: Social Learning Theory and General Strain Theory. Social Learning Theory suggests that Hernandez's exposure to violence from an early age, particularly his father’s abuse and his later association with criminal influences, shaped his behavioral tendencies. General Strain Theory posits that the cumulative stressors in his life—including childhood trauma, the pressure of hiding his sexual identity, and the loss of his father—contributed to his criminal actions as a maladaptive response to strain.
By analyzing Hernandez’s life within these theoretical frameworks, this paper highlights the complex interplay between social environment, personal trauma, and biological factors in shaping criminal behavior.
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