Control Theory and Crime Dynamics

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to control theory and crime dynamics based on the lecture notes.

Control Theory

A theory that focuses on what prevents people from committing crimes, emphasizing the role of social controls.

Anomie

A state of normlessness, where societal norms break down leading to increased crime, as described by Émile Durkheim.

Social Solidarity

The social ties and bonds that maintain social order and controls within a community.

Looking Glass Self

A concept by Charles Cooley explaining how a person's self-concept develops through their perception of how others view them.

Containment Theory

Proposed by Walter Reckless, it explains how inner and outer controls act to prevent criminal behavior.

Techniques of Neutralization

Methods used by delinquents to justify their behavior and reduce feelings of guilt.

Drift Theory

The idea that delinquents oscillate between conformity and nonconformity, implying they are not fully committed to criminal behavior.

Social Bonds

Connections that individuals maintain with society, including attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief.

Self-Control Theory

A theory asserting that low self-control is the primary factor leading to criminal behavior, established by Travis Hirschi.

Labeling Theory

Suggests that individuals become criminals when labeled as such by society, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Primary Deviance

Initial acts of deviance that do not result in the individual being labeled as a criminal.

Secondary Deviance

Deviance that occurs after a person has been labeled, leading them to accept the label and continue the behavior.

Conflict Theory

A sociological theory that views crime as a result of social and economic conflicts, emphasizing inequality.

Collective Efficacy

The ability of a community to control the behavior of individuals and groups in the community.

Differential Association Theory

A theory proposed by Edwin Sutherland that suggests criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others.

Reintegrative Shaming

A restorative justice approach that aims to reduce crime by integrating offenders back into the community with support rather than stigma.

Control Balance Theory

The concept that individuals' levels of control in a situation determine their likelihood of engaging in deviance.

Differential Coercion Theory

Mark Colvin's theory that suggests varying levels of coercion exposure can lead to chronic criminality.

Inner Containment

An individual's self-control and self-concept that influence their ability to resist criminal behavior.

Outer Containment

The social structures and institutions that impose limits and constraints on individual behavior to maintain social order.

Sociocultural Controls

Forces that discourage deviance and promote conformity within a society.

Reentry Programs

Initiatives designed to assist former prisoners in reintegrating into society and reducing recidivism.

Irony of State Intervention

The concept that state actions aimed at reducing crime can inadvertently contribute to increased criminal behavior.

Criminogenic Labeling

The phenomenon where the act of labeling individuals as criminals contributes to their continued criminal behavior.

Surveillance

Monitoring systems established in 21st century society designed to deter crime by increasing perceived likelihood of being observed.

Social Disorganization Theory

A framework indicating that crime occurs in communities with weak social institutions and disorganized social structures.

Family Control

The primary socializing force through which children learn norms and values that discourage criminal behavior.

Emile Durkheim

Sociologist known for his work on anomie and social cohesion, foundational in control theory.

Juvenile Delinquency

Criminal behavior committed by a minor, often studied to understand the efficacy of social controls.

Collective Activity

Engagement in group activities that provide purpose and foster social bonds.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

A prediction or expectation that causes itself to become true due to positive feedback between belief and behavior.

Regulation

The rules and norms that govern individual behavior within society, essential for maintaining social order.

Integration

The process by which individuals connect and bond with others, creating a supportive community that deters crime.