How is criminal conduct defined in the legal code?

Criminal conduct is defined as behavior that violates public law, which encompasses actions that are specifically prohibited by statutes or regulations enacted by a governing authority. This definition is grounded in the legal framework where laws are established to maintain order, protect individuals, and safeguard property within society. Thus, criminal conduct is explicitly identified by its infringement upon legal statutes, distinguishing it from merely immoral, harmful, or socially unacceptable acts that may not necessarily result in legal penalties.

In this context, while the other options may touch upon negative aspects of behavior—such as immorality or social acceptability—they do not accurately capture the legal implications required for something to be classified as criminal. Only violations of public law constitute criminal conduct, making it a more precise and legally relevant classification.