Homework 3 – Applying Control Theories & Learning Theories to Practical Examples

Instructions

1. Read these detailed instructions, paying close attention to assignment goals, due dates, and other submission guidelines.
2. Jesse Pomeroy was born in 1859 in Charleston, Massachusetts and went on to murder multiple victims as a 14-year-old boy. Read his story here: “Jesse Pomeroy – ‘Boston Boy Fiend'” (https://www.murderbygaslight.com/2010/08/jesse-pomeroy-boston-boy-fiend.html#comment-form). Content Warning: This story contains violent imagery of animal abuse and murder. Then answer the following questions:
   1. Do you think that Pomeroy engaged in such behavior out of selfishness and personal satisfaction, and without any empathy for his victims, because that was what his experience taught him to do? Explain your answer.
   2. If Jesse engaged in these behaviors because he had low self-control, why did he have such low self-control? What types of things could have been done to improve his self-control during childhood?
3. Find one piece of media covering true crime. Include a link to the story in your initial post.  You can can share a podcast, a news story, a documentary, etc. Specifically, the case must have detailed information about the offender’s personal history. 
   1. Briefly summarize the details of the case in your own words.
   2. Apply social learning theory to this example. Be specific, making clear connections between the theory and the offenses you describe. What do you feel social learning theory adequately explains about your case? What is one limitation you can see in the application of the theory? Explain your reasoning.
4. Your paper should be 1000-1500 words. Submit a double-spaced paper with 12 point font and one inch margins. No title page is required. You should include a References page indicating: (a) where you found your information , and (b) any course materials you use to support your arguments. Failure to properly reference sources results in a 25% points deduction on the assignment.
   
5. Note on Using Quotes From Other Sources: Here is a general rule for quoting others in your own work: you should only quote other authors if failing to use their exact words would cause a statement to lose its essential meaning. It is not the case on this assignment. Do not use direct quotes in this submission. Paraphrase the work of others in your own words. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in a multi-letter grade reduction for the assignment.