This assignment will ask you to consider theory relevance for a specific offender. Make sure to number your
response so it is clear which question you are answering.
Review the following links AND others you find about Larry Nassar and the crimes he committed.
https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/larry-nassar
https://www.usatoday.com/pages/interactives/larry-nassar-timeline/
https://time.com/5629228/larry-nassar-victim-speaks-out/ (graphic story by an early victim/survivor of Nassar’s
but provides some insight into his behaviors)
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/larry-nassar-usa-gymnastics-doctor-sentenced-prison-sexualassault
https://www.npr.org/2018/11/16/668629660/how-he-got-caught (actual interview of him…can be graphic)

1. From the limited information we have on Nassar…in your personal opinion, why do you think he did it? Do
   not address theory in your opinions…just discuss why you think he did it (one paragraph of your opinion)
2. Using ONE of the theories under the grouping of Classical School OR Positivism…
   • review that theory, state the theory then develop three questions you would ask Nassar to help determine if
   that theory would be relevant to explain his criminality (think about it as an investigation…you are going to
   interview him, and you only have three questions you can ask)
   • the questions should be relevant to the theory you chose
   • make the questions open-ended, rather than yes/no
3. Using ONE theory under the social learning grouping…
   • review that theory then develop three questions you would ask Nassar to help determine if that theory would
   be relevant to explain his criminality (think about it as an investigation…you are going to interview him, and you
   only have three questions you can ask)
   • the questions should be relevant to the theory you chose
   • make the questions open-ended, rather than yes/no
4. Discuss three challenges/difficulties/issues you experienced in trying to find a relevant theory to explain the
   actions of Larry Nassar

Sample Solution