Chapter 4: Contemporary Classical and Deterrence Research

Modern Deterrence Research

Rebirth of deterrence theory in contemporary criminology.

Rational Choice Theory

Framework emphasizing decision-making in criminal behavior.

Routine Activities Theory

Crime occurs where motivated offenders, targets, and lack of guardianship converge.

Four Waves of Deterrence Research

Aggregate, cross-sectional, longitudinal, scenario studies in deterrence.

Aggregate Studies

Collections of studies assessing deterrence at a group level.

Cross-Sectional Studies

Data collected at one point in time for analysis.

Longitudinal Studies

Research examining changes over time in individuals.

Experiential Effect

Previous experiences influence perceptions of punishment severity.

Scenario Research

Hypothetical situations used to gauge decision-making responses.

Vignettes

Short narratives used in scenario research for analysis.

Immersive Virtual Reality Studies

VR used to simulate scenarios for emotional response assessment.

Formal Deterrence

Deterrent effects from law enforcement and judicial systems.

Informal Deterrence

Deterrent influences from social factors like family and friends.

The Reasoning Criminal

Book by Cornish and Clarke on rational choice perspectives.

Seduction of Crime

Katz's work highlighting pleasure in criminal behavior.

Motivated Offender

Individuals inclined to commit crimes under certain conditions.

Suitable Targets

Attractive opportunities for crime, like unlocked cars.

Lack of Guardianship

Absence of protective factors against crime.

Hot Spots

Locations with high convergence of crime factors.

Minneapolis Hot Spots Study

1989 study identifying crime-prone locations in Minneapolis.

Crime Mapping

Using technology to identify and analyze crime locations.

Geographic Profiling

Mapping crimes to predict future criminal activity.

Lifestyles Perspective

Theory linking lifestyle choices to victimization risk.

Broken Windows Theory

Minor offenses lead to an increase in major crimes.

Three Strikes Laws

Severe penalties for repeat offenders to deter crime.

Shaming Penalties

Judicial penalties aimed at deterring recidivism through social stigma.

Recidivism

Tendency of previously incarcerated individuals to reoffend.

Certainty of Punishment

Likelihood that a punishment will be applied.

Severity of Punishment

Harshness of punishment imposed for criminal acts.

Impulsivity

Tendency to act without forethought, influencing criminal behavior.