Which category do theories that examine human development related to criminal behavior fall under?

The correct answer is Life-Course Theories, which focus on understanding how individual development and life experiences influence criminal behavior over time. These theories emphasize the significance of various life stages and the transitions individuals make through different periods in their lives, including childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Life-Course Theories explore how factors such as family dynamics, peer influences, education, and significant life events can shape an individual's propensity for criminal behavior.

This approach is distinct because it looks at the long-term patterns in a person's life rather than just situational or immediate factors. Life-Course Theories acknowledge that people can move in and out of criminal behavior across different phases of their lives due to changes in their circumstances, social networks, and personal choices. By examining these developmental aspects, Life-Course Theories provide a more nuanced understanding of why some individuals may engage in criminal activities at certain times but refrain from them at others, highlighting the importance of considering the trajectory of a person's life.