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Chapter 1 - The Character of Contemporary Crime

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 May 2026

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Summary

Of the crimes making contemporary news, mass shootings occur too frequently and result in a tremendous loss of life. Many represent offenders attempting to get even with immigrants, minorities, and others they think have hurt mainstream American culture. Sex offenders include trusted adults such as scout leaders, physicians, and politicians who victimize children, patients, and employees. Some offenders are highly educated and behave as though they are entitled to violate norms and laws. These contemporary offenses involve either exploitation or retaliation in response to a grievance. Both these behavioral responses are associated with the personality style known as narcissism.

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