Criminological Theory Context and Consequences Key Terms

These flashcards encapsulate key terms and concepts from criminological theory, aiding in the understanding and application of these critical ideas in the study of crime.

Crime

An act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by law.

Crime measurement

Methods used to quantify the incidence and distribution of crime.

UCR

Uniform Crime Reporting; a system of collecting and analyzing crime statistics.

NCVS

National Crime Victimization Survey; a survey measuring the amount and types of crime.

Criminality

The quality or state of being criminal; also refers to the characteristics inherent in criminal behavior.

Theory

A systematic explanation of the underlying principles of a phenomenon.

Social context of crime

The environmental and social factors that influence criminal behavior.

Rational choice theory

A theory that posits individuals make decisions to commit crimes based on a calculated decision-making process.

Deterrence theory

A theory suggesting that the threat of punishment will deter individuals from committing crimes.

Social disorganization theory

The theory that crime is a result of the breakdown of social structures and community control.

Labeling theory

A theory that suggests that the labels society places on individuals influence their self-identity and behavior.

Anomie

A social condition where norms are confused, unclear, or not present, often leading to social instability.

Strain theory

A theory suggesting that societal pressure can lead individuals to commit crimes when they cannot achieve socially acceptable goals.

Self-control theory

A theory positing that individuals with lower self-control are more likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Gendered crime

A term referring to the ways in which crime is differentially perpetrated and experienced based on gender.

Bio-social theory

A theory that integrates biological and social factors to explain criminal behavior.

Routine activities theory

A theory suggesting that crime occurs when a motivated offender, suitable target, and lack of capable guardianship converge in space and time.

Pestilence fallacy

The mistaken belief that certain social conditions, such as illness, solely cause crime without considering other factors.

Integrated theories

Theories that combine components from multiple criminological perspectives to explain criminal behavior.