CRS2

Theories of Crime and criminal beheviour

aim to explain why individuals commit crimes, offering insights into the underlying factors that drive criminal actions. These theories fall into several categories, each examining different causes and motivations.

Biological Theories

Posit that individuals may be predisposed to criminal behaviour due to their genetic makeup or physiological traits.

Psychological Theories

focus on mental processes and personality traits and emotional responses to explain criminal behaviour.

Sociological Theories

view crime as a result of social conditions, environmental factors, and group dynamics

Conflict and critical theories

view crime as a response to social inequality or power struggles within society. Together, these theories provide a framework for understanding the complex, multifaceted nature of crime, aiding efforts to prevent and address criminal behaviour.

Social Disorganisation Theory

developed in the early 20th century by sociologists at the University of Chicago, examines how community structures impact crime rates. This theory suggests that crime is more prevalent in areas with high poverty, unemployment, and lack of social cohesion.

Strain Theory

was developed by sociologist Robert K. Merton, who argued that crime is a result of the disconnect between culturally accepted goals (such as wealth or status) and the legitimate means available to achieve them.

Labelling Theory

focuses on how society’s response to individuals can influence their behaviour. According to this theory, labelling an individual as a “criminal” or “deviant” can reinforce criminal behaviour by influencing their self-identity and limiting social opportunities.

Social Control Theory

developed by Travis Hirschi, posits that strong social bonds with family, friends, and the community reduce the likelihood of criminal behaviour. According to this theory, individuals with stronger attachments to others, greater involvement in productive activities, and a commitment to social norms are less likely to commit crimes.

Rational Choice Theory

posits that individuals are rational actors who weigh the potential costs and benefits of their actions. In this view, crime is a calculated decision based on the perceived likelihood of success and the anticipated rewards versus the risks, such as punishment.

Conflict Theory

suggests that crime arises from social and economic inequalities. According to this theory, laws are created and enforced by the ruling class to maintain control over the lower classes. Crime, therefore, is a response to oppressive conditions and an act of resistance against a system perceived as unjust.

Critical Theory

expands on Conflict Theory by arguing that crime definitions and laws are created by a select few to maintain control over society. This theory explores how crime and deviance are defined by those in power, often reflecting their interests rather than universal moral principles.

Social Learning Theory

proposes that individuals learn behaviours, including criminal ones, through observation and imitation of others, especially influential figures in their social environment, such as family, friends, or media. This theory is rooted in the idea that behaviour is shaped through interaction with others.

Positivist Theory

is based on the belief that crime is caused by external factors beyond an individual’s control, such as biological, social, or psychological influences. Unlike rational choice perspectives, Positivism rejects the idea of free will, viewing individuals as products of their environment.

Cesare Lombroso

An Italian criminologist who believed that criminals possessed certain “atavistic” traits or primitive features, suggesting a biological inclination toward crime. Author of Biological Theories

Robert K. Merton

identified several responses to strain, including innovation (using unconventional methods, such as crime, to achieve goals), ritualism (adhering to socially accepted means but abandoning goals), and rebellion (rejecting both societal goals and means). Strain Theory has been influential in understanding why marginalised groups or those facing socio-economic disadvantages may turn to crime. Developed Strain Theory

Travis Hirschi

Developed Social Control Theory

Albert Bandura

people learn not only through direct experience but also by observing the consequences of others’ actions. This theory explains how criminal behaviour can spread within social groups or communities, as individuals learn norms, techniques, and motivations for crime. Programs that provide positive role models and encourage pro-social behaviour are central to preventing crime within this framework.