Cesare Lombroso was an Italian criminologist who is sometimes referred to as the “father of criminology” because he helped popularize the idea that criminology should be scientifically studied. However, he was also a eugenicist and argued that criminal thinking was an inherited trait and that you could even determine through physical features who was most likely to become a criminal.[1]
Of course, modern social scientists and criminologists completely reject these ideas. And in doing so, they have moved closer to what the Bible teaches: that the mind can be renewed and redeemed:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” -Romans 12:2 (ESV)
We cannot change criminal behavior without first transforming the mind. But how do you go about that? Through psychological therapy and behavioral science? Through biblical teaching and practice? Or is possible to marinate these two forces for the greatest impact?
At JUMPSTART, we believe that the greatest rehabilitative and transformative programming happens when the power of faith-based discipleship harmonizes with the tools produced by social science research.
Because we believe that all true transformation starts with the Gospel, we've developed a program grounded in Christian discipleship, emphasizing the growth, understanding, and responsibilities that accompany spiritual progression.
Yet we don't limit ourselves to theological exploration alone. We actively integrate the best findings from social science, ensuring that participants benefit from a holistic blend of spiritual depth and evidence-based insights. This convergence reinforces the idea that the path to discipleship in Christ and the revelations from scientific research are not contradictory but can beautifully amplify each other.
Antisocial Beliefs and Values
When I think back to my own life as a criminal, I can see how so much of my beliefs and values were rooted in antisocial thinking. I wanted to be my own god and master—I wanted to be beholden to no other force. So much so, that when I went on the run, my plan in the event of capture was to commit suicide.
I was so blinded by my antisocial beliefs and values, I had lost self-awareness. And my sense of reality was so distorted, I didn’t even consider how I had people in my life who loved me and wanted the best for me, even though I didn't know what that looked like.
JUMPSTART is meticulously designed to foster self-awareness concerning cognitive distortions frequently identified among incarcerated individuals. As noted by Cullen et al. (2017), these distortions can manifest as exaggerated entitlement senses, misinterpretations of reality, tendencies for self-justification, externalized blame, and distrust toward institutional structures.[2]
Such misconceptions lead individuals to erroneous interpretations of benign behaviors as threatening. Through its programming, JUMPSTART provides tools for participants to detect and rectify these antisocial patterns.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common antisocial patterns associated with criminal behavior:
Substance Abuse
There's a well-established connection between substance abuse and criminal activities (King & Delfabbro, 2019).[3] Although JUMPSTART isn’t exclusively geared towards substance abuse intervention, participant testimonials indicate the program's potential to curb substance-related criminal behaviors.
By emphasizing personal purpose as a transformative tool, the program inspires participants with success stories of those who have navigated the challenges of addiction and criminality. When coupled with biblical teaching of finding one’s fulfillment and identity in Christ rather than identifying as an addict, we believe this approach plays a significant role in reducing substance-related recidivism.
We also implement clinical care plans and community-based support for those in our program who have had a history of substance abuse. Through amazing community partnerships with the Spartanburg Access Health and Forrester Center for Behavioral Health, those in our transitional program have access to behavioral and clinical counseling. Even addiction recovery approaches that completely exclude faith, recognize the power of encouragement and accountability in helping one avoid relapse. You can click here read more about national recognition we’ve received for creating best-in-class reentry support partnerships.
Antisocial Peers
Recent research, such as that conducted by Monahan et al. (2020), reinforces the notion that an individual’s peer group significantly influences criminal behavior. When surrounded by peers involved in illicit activities, one's likelihood of participating increases.[4]
JUMPSTART educates participants on the profound impact of their social circles, providing strategies for resisting negative influences while fostering positive peer interactions. This is achieved through mechanisms like peer mentorship and community volunteer engagement, creating supportive social networks for participants during and post-incarceration.
One of the methods we use to foster positive peer interactions is through a daily morning huddle where participants share who they are going to encourage that day. It provides a practical way for all participants to both give and receive positive influence, creating a stronger social bonds.
Family Dysfunction
The family's role in shaping early behavior and attitudes is crucial, with contemporary research underscoring its impact on eventual outcomes (Smith et al., 2018). Families marked by dysfunction, substance misuse, and criminal behaviors often instigate harmful behavioral patterns.[5]
Recognizing this, JUMPSTART delves deep into these issues, offering holistic solutions for participants to confront and transform these ingrained challenges. For years, people have debated “Nature vs. Nurture,” but both fail to account for the spiritual connection—the combined impact of Nature and Nurture
While Lombroso was wrong about the “nature” of how criminal behavior is passed on, the Bible teaches us how we have inherited sin, generation to generation. The only solution to this spiritual family dysfunction is through adoption into a new family—through Jesus and “the purpose of his will.” (Ephesians 1:5, ESV)
If you'd like to discuss further about JUMPSTART SC's programs or are interested in having me come and share with a group or team, feel free to email me at cary.Sanders@jumpstartvision.org or visit jumpstartvision.org/south-carolina to learn more about our work.
Dr. Cary Sanders
CEO, JUMPSTART SC
[1] Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Cesare Lombroso." Encyclopedia Britannica, January 23, 2024. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cesare-Lombroso.
[2] Cullen, F. T., Jonson, C. L., & Nagin, D. S. (2017). Prisons do not reduce recidivism: The high cost of ignoring science. The Prison Journal, 97(4), 389-404.
[3] King, D. L., & Delfabbro, P. H. (2019). The cognitive psychology of Internet gaming disorder. Clinical Psychology Review, 68, 1-13.
[4] Monahan, K. C., King, K. M., Shulman, E. P., Cauffman, E., & Chassin, L. (2020). The effects of violence exposure on the development of impulse control and future orientation across adolescence and early adulthood: Time-specific and generalized effects in a sample of juvenile offenders. Development and Psychopathology, 32(2), 509-521.
[5] Smith, C. A., Ireland, T. O., & Thornberry, T. P. (2018). Adolescent maltreatment and its impact on young adult antisocial behavior. Child Abuse & Neglect, 84, 313-322.
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