Assignment:
You need help with the following scenario, you are acting in the role of a police officer who is dealing with a juvenile. This juvenile is out past curfew. Curfew violations are a city ordinance, and police officers may make an arrest in this situation or decide to handle the offense less formally.
What factors would contribute to your exercising discretion in this scenario?
According to rational choice theory, individuals consciously weigh the risk and reward of an action before they break the law. If you subscribe to rational choice theory, would there be a reason to use discretion in this circumstance?
In understanding conflict theory, discuss how this impacts the officer's decision to arrest or not arrest individuals based on social class. Please include references if applicable.