Physical Security Professional Certification Practice Exam

Which aspect defines what a perpetrator assumes will occur if a crime is successful?

1. Motive

2. Desire

3. Opportunity

4. Capability

The correct answer is: Desire

The aspect that defines what a perpetrator assumes will occur if a crime is successful is best described as desire. This refers to the personal feelings and objectives that drive an individual to commit a crime. The desire outlines the anticipated outcome that a criminal hopes to achieve, such as financial gain, power, or revenge. Understanding this concept is critical in physical security as it sheds light on the psyche of potential offenders. Recognizing what motivates individuals to commit offenses can help security professionals create strategies to deter such actions. For instance, if a criminal desires monetary profit, security measures may focus on making theft more difficult and less appealing. While motives can encompass the broader reasons for committing a crime, desire more specifically targets the expected gratification or outcome following a successful criminal act, making it central to understanding perpetrator behavior.