NCJ Number
87370
Journal
Indian Journal of Criminology Volume: 10 Issue: 2 Dated: (July 1982) Pages: 76-90
Date Published
1982
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Crime is a biological/physiological phenomenon arising from stress, which can be eliminated through transcendental meditation (TM) so as to produce the bodily state of least excitation and the release of creative intelligence that fosters rational social order in accord with natural law.
Abstract
Despite the knowledge accumulated in the areas of human physiology, psychology, and sociology in the last few decades, criminal law, procedure, and corrections has continued to be based in unscientific concepts from an earlier century, i.e., that criminal behavior is a free choice that can be discouraged and corrected through threats, intimidation, and the structuring of painful consequences for outlawed behavior. Studies in the behavioral field have repeatedly shown that accumulated stress leads to nervousness and emotional breakdowns manifested in disorderly behavior, including law violations. This points to the need for an empirically tested process that can release stress and normalize the human nervous system. Scientific studies have demonstrated the efficacy of TM as a stress release technique. Substantive and procedural criminal laws should be reformed to accord with scientific knowledge of human behavior, and the treatment of offenders should be based in diagnoses rooted in the physiological nature of crime. Rehabilitation should include preparation for employment, medical services, and the use of TM and related programs of stress reduction. Aftercare services should include stress control measures. A bibliography of seven listings is provided.