Criminal Thinking Patterns
This thinking pattern leads you to believe you are a good person regardless of your actions. You put effort into convincing others of that image, and sometimes even view yourself as superior to those around you.
"Good person" stance
Which band released the hit song Hotel California?
The Eagles
Who was the lead singer of the band Queen?
Freddie Mercury
List 3 positive affirmations.
I am ________.
I am ________.
I am ________.
This thinking pattern makes you act tough and fearless on the outside while hiding deep fear on the inside. You worry that others will see through you and discover your insecurity. At the core, it is a fear of facing yourself — tied to addict pride, misplaced trust, and the belief that real change isn’t possible.
Fear of exposure
Who was the first man to walk on the moon?
Neil Armstrong
In Greek mythology, who was the god of the sea?
Poseidon
Simple, empowering statements in which you declare your goals and desires as if you accomplished them.
Positive affirmations
This thinking pattern happens when you shift responsibility away from yourself and onto others. Instead of owning your choices, you claim you were treated unfairly. You point fingers, make excuses, and attempt to defend your actions by saying you were the one harmed.
Victim stance
Who played Jack in the movie Titanic?
Leonardo DiCaprio
Which U.S. landmark was completed in 1883 and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn?
The Brooklyn Bridge
is a process that will involve setbacks and frustrations, but allowing yourself to grow and evolve is the best gift you can give yourself.
Change
This thinking pattern makes you believe that no one else is like you or has lived through what you have. You see yourself as different, above the rules, and assume you won’t face consequences. You may even think your drug or alcohol use sets you apart or makes you look impressive.
Unique person stance
What is the main ingredient in guacamole?
Avocado
What is the capital city of Italy?
Rome
________ risk factors can’t be changed – like your past convictions or age.
_______ risk factors can be changed – like drug addiction, employment, family support, housing, level of education, mental health, and the people you spend time with. For example, if you successfully complete drug treatment and are clean for a period of time, your risk for being arrested again is lowered. Similarly, your risk for being arrested is lower if you have a job.
Static
Dynamic
This thinking pattern keeps you from learning from the past or preparing for the future. You treat each choice as if it stands alone, with the attitude of “I want it, and I want it now.” You expect rewards without putting in real effort and base decisions on what you wish were true. In addiction, this shows up as focusing only on getting high in the moment or figuring out how to get more in the near future, while ignoring long-term consequences.
What is the largest mammal in the world?
Blue whale
Who wrote the Harry Potter book series?
J.K. Rowling
True or false: If you spend all your time with people who are involved in criminal activity, you will be more likely to commit a crime at some point.