What is the primary focus of learning theory in criminology?

The primary focus of learning theory in criminology is centered around the concept that criminal behavior is largely acquired through interactions with others and the environment, which emphasizes the role of learned behaviors. This theory posits that individuals learn to engage in criminal acts through various processes, such as observation and reinforcement, rather than through inherent traits or psychological disorders.

Learning theory incorporates ideas from social learning theory, where the behavior of individuals is influenced by those they observe, including family, peers, and the media. This perspective suggests that if a person is exposed to pro-criminal attitudes and behaviors, they are more likely to adopt those behaviors themselves due to the reinforcement or modeling they experience. Thus, understanding and addressing the social contexts and environments where these behaviors are learned is crucial for both crime prevention and rehabilitation strategies.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of learning theory. The focus on psychological disorders relates to a different area of study and does not specifically address the learned factors of criminal behavior. Promoting punishment is associated with traditional deterrence theories rather than the learning aspects of behavior. Lastly, the notion of innate moral values overlooks the significance of environmental influences and social learning that are central to understanding criminal behavior through learning theory.