What aspect of criminal behavior does the classical school of criminology primarily focus on?

The classical school of criminology primarily emphasizes the concepts of rational choice and free will as key elements in understanding criminal behavior. This perspective is grounded in the belief that individuals possess the capacity to make informed choices and that they will engage in criminal behavior if the perceived benefits outweigh the potential costs or punishments associated with such actions.

This school of thought, which emerged in the late 18th century with thinkers such as Cesare Beccaria, proposes that by understanding this decision-making process, society can enact reforms to deter crime through the establishment of proportionate punishments. The focus on rationality and the notion that individuals can assess risks and consequences underscores the importance of personal agency in criminology.

In contrast, the other options concentrate on different determinants of criminal behavior. Psychological traits delve into the mental states and individual psychological makeup, while biological factors explore innate characteristics or genetic predispositions. Sociological influences look at how social environments, relationships, and cultural contexts affect behavior. While these aspects can interplay with rational choices, they do not align with the classical school's foundational principle of free will and rationality in criminal decisions.