Assignment:
You should reflect on each of the topics and theories we have discussed throughout the course and answer the question "What are the root causes of crime and what can be done to prevent or reduce crime in society?" The causes of crime are complex and multifaceted. Most people today accept that genetics, poverty, parental neglect, low self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse are all connected in explaining why people commit crimes.
Research has stated that it is more often an interaction between genes and the environment that predicts criminal behavior. Having a genetic predisposition for criminal behavior does not determine the actions of an individual, but if they are exposed to the right environment, then their chances are greater for engaging in criminal or anti-social behavior. A profiler might utilize the old cliché, "genetics loads the gun, personality aims it and the environment pulls the trigger." Could it really be that simple? Some people are simply at greater risk of becoming offenders because of the circumstances into which they are born.
Research can only hope to eliminate some factors from consideration and strengthen our confidence in the role played by other factors. Naturally, as research continues to be conducted, our picture of crime constantly changes. One common problem in popular discussions of crime is a tendency to confuse the search for causes with a search for blame. To say that child neglect increases the risk of delinquency or that alcohol abuse increases the risk of domestic violence is not to say that parents are to blame for delinquency or that alcohol abuse is to blame for domestic violence. The term "crime" is, itself, potentially misleading. It encompasses everything from non-payment of parking fines to rape, armed robbery or murder. Make sure you look at My Announcements because I will be posting more about the essay there.
Throughout the semester, we will be discussing several theories of crime and criminality, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and policy implications. They all attempt to explain the causes of crime and what if anything we can do about it. Beginning in Week 1 You will be introduced to the Semester Project. You will work on this project at your own pace.
You will submit a minimum 1,500 to 2000 word essay (not to include an abstract, cover page, or references). "Please do not attempt to submit a paper in a PDF format, it will not be accepted.
Rational choice theory
Trait theory
Social structure theory
Social process theories- differential association, social learning theory, social control theory, and labeling theory.
Book: Larry J. Siegel (©2018). Criminology: Theories, Patterns and Typologies 13th