The Storied Nature of Crime: A Study of Jordanian Offenders' Narrative Roles and Emotional Experiences Across Different Crime Types

In exploring the subjective experience of crime using self-report methods, research indicated that Western offenders' narrative roles and emotional experiences of crime could instigate and shape their criminal behaviours. The central aim of this thesis was to provide an enriched understanding of male and female offenders' criminal narratives within a non-Western cultural context by exploring their narrative roles and emotional experiences across different crime types. This thesis is the first of its kind to examine offenders' narratives within an Arab context; compare the findings between genders and cross-culturally; and consider variations in offenders' narrative experiences across different crimes. A total of 108 convicted Jordanian offenders (92 males and 16 females) were recruited from four different prisons in Jordan. Their age range was 19-61 years. Participants completed demographic and crime related questions, the Narrative Roles Questionnaire (NRQ) and the Emotions Felt During Crime Questionnaire (EFDCQ). Smallest Space Analysis (SSA) supported the existence of four emotion themes of Calm, Elation, Depression and Distress for both genders in line with Russell's (1997) Circumplex Structure of Affect. SSA also supported the existence of four narrative role themes (Hero, Professional, Revenger and Victim); however, Frye's (1957) notion of a cyclical order was only partially achieved. The Professional and Hero roles were relevant for male property and drug offenders in contrast to females where the Hero role was relevant for violent offenders. The Calm theme for males was more evident in sexual offences and the Distress theme in murder. For females, the Calm theme was evident in violent and drug offences; however, not to a significant level. Conceptual similarities and differences with previous research were noted. Adjustments to the NRQ and EFDCQ were suggested to ensure cultural relevance. The theoretical, methodological, and practical implications of the findings are discussed, and suggestions for future research highlighted.