The impulsiveness of youth can often lead to serious crimes, but it is not always a direct path. Young people may act on their impulses because they feel justified in their actions or believe that common rules do not apply to them. This mental landscape can lead to serious crimes among young offenders, according to Riittakerttu Kaltiala, a professor of youth psychiatry at the University of Tampere.
In the case of an 18-year-old man suspected of rape and murder in Valkeakoski, he had a previous criminal record and had fantasized about killing a woman online before the murder. Kaltiala explains how these behaviors can evolve into actions as individuals with antisocial personality may feel entitled to take matters into their own hands.
Furthermore, feedback from online groups that incite negative thoughts can further encourage young people to act on their impulses. However, serious crimes committed by young people are not due to an inability to control their impulses. Rather, young people understand the consequences of their actions and make a choice to act.
Young people may be more impulsive and interested in risk-taking than adults, but these characteristics typically do not lead to serious crimes. It is crucial for society to understand that young people are capable of controlling their desires and making informed decisions when addressing serious crimes committed by youth.
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