Lifestyle theory is developed by Glen Walter, which states that criminal behavior is a part of a general pattern of life characterized by irresponsibility, impulsiveness, self-indulgence, negative interpersonal relationships and the chronic willingness to violate society’s rules. Lifestyle theory has three key concepts: choices, conditions and cognition[1].
The gangsters punish Lu by using brutal methods to beat him. There are several choices that the gangsters can use to deal with Lu’s betrayal. However, since the gangsters are at the stage of adolescence, they are impulsive when facing problems. They do not think thoroughly about the consequences of beating the victim. The impulsiveness of the gangsters leads to the tragedy.
Second, attachment to significant others is the most important condition in this theory. The gangsters have a close relationship to each other; their decisions will be largely affected by their peers. Therefore, when one of the gangsters suggested beating Lu, the other gangsters followed his decision.
The third concept is cognition. Criminals display thinking errors when they commit crime. Using the case as an example, the gangsters used the violence to deal with Lu’s betrayal instead of other methods. They might think that using violence is the best way to express their anger and makes revenge. Their think errors, as a result, lead to their violent behavior.
