left realist theories of crime and deviance

WJEC essay plan for left realist theories of crime and deviance

introduction

crime is a product of social inequality and deprivation. societal changes (economic marginalisation) an increase in relative deprivation provide context in which crime occurs. Young and Lea.

key concepts

relative deprivation is central, perception of being deprived relative to others in society leads to frustration which triggers crime. Square of Crime, role and interrelationship of 4 components, offender, state (police and courts), victim, and public. subcultures also central, crime is a collective response, not lone acts of individuals. marginalisation, societal marginalisation leads to feelings on resentment and results in criminal behaviour.

policies supported by left realism

endorses tackling inequality and root causes that contribute to crime (unemployment and poor education). advocate to make the CJS more democratic (local community involvement). promote community policing, improvement of relationships between police and community, including marginalised groups.

challenges to left realism

over-emphasises ‘street crime’, ignores ‘white collar’ and corporate crime. focus on victim limits understanding of the criminals by labelling them as ‘offenders’, doesn’t acknowledge complex roles including potentially being victims themselves. focus on relative deprivation and marginalisation; partial view of causes of crime, overlooks other possible factors (individual motivations or psychological factors).

conclusion

valuable perspectives to understanding crime and deviance, focusing on social inequality and deprivation as underlying causes. emphasises need for practical solutions and prevention strategies at both societal and local community levels. emphasis on victimisation, social justice, and involvement of marginalised groups in crime; more nuances display of criminal behaviours and possible interventions.