What do process theories seek to explain?

Process theories focus on understanding the mechanisms and factors that contribute to an individual's pathway into criminal behavior or delinquency. They delve into the social, psychological, and environmental influences that shape a person's decision-making processes and behaviors. Essentially, these theories aim to unravel how and why certain individuals may engage in criminal activity, considering various influences such as family background, peer relationships, socioeconomic status, and personal experiences. By examining these dynamics, process theories seek to provide insight into the development of criminal identities and behaviors over time, which is foundational for developing interventions and preventative measures in criminology.