Research on highly intelligent individuals convicted for crime is relatively scarce. Many previous studies have found a link between low IQ and crime and seen higher IQ as aprotective factor for criminal activity. The current study questions whether it is really the case that high IQ would act as a protection factor and examines what motivates highly intelligent individuals to commit offenses. The study uses a qualitative method. A total of 10 semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals (seven men, three women) who had at least 126 in IQ, and were convicted for one or more crimes. A thematic analysis with an inductive approach was performed, after which the theory of rational choice and the theory of social bonds were chosen to interpret the collected data. The results showed that all participants ruled out the option of giving up crime, either for the reward of the crime or because they considered the criminal act necessary. It also emerged that several of the participants had committed many more crimes than they had been convicted for. Exclusion of various kinds was another picture that was painted, as well as a feeling of leading during school time. A further discussion on the relationship between intelligence and crime is initiated and proposals for further research are given.
2022-01-31