What role does depression play in rational choice theory?

Question

I am taking a criminal justice course and I am trying to figure out if a person commits a crime claiming depression can they still be held accountable according to rational choice theory?

Answer 1

Just because you are depressed, it doesn't mean that you don't know right from wrong. I have a J.D degree, but I've never practiced before. However, I do know that, emotionally you can't control yourself, its how God created you. However, actions done BECAUSE of your emotions just show you have low self control, and you can't control your BEHAVIOR. Behavior and emotions are two different things. Emotions you can not control, but your behavior you can. Those who commit crimes because they are "depressed" are using a very simple and logical malady in everyday life to explain why they did something. They just don't want to pay the full price of the consequences of their Actions. When you're angry you think and say things you don't mean, however, it doesn't mean that you don't know what you're saying. You're saying it, because you're thinking out loud literally when you are upset. But under the Rational Choice Theory, people get so upset / angry that they don't think Thoroughly enough about their actions. So after they commit the action, they see it was wrong, and they need a scapegoat.

Answer 2

I don't know what the 'rational choice theory' is. If you argue that a depressed person cannot act rationally, you may as well close down the criminal justice system. Every defendant is 'having a bad day' even if they aren't.