Criminology CH 9 Study Guide

Life Course Theory

Crime is viewed as a process influenced by various individual, social, and situational factors throughout one’s life.

Latent Trait Theory

Some individuals have stable traits that increase their propensity for crime over their lifetime.

Trajectory Theory

There are multiple pathways to criminal behavior, with different types of offenders

Problem Behavior Syndrome (PBS)

Crime is seen as part of a cluster of social and personal issues, including substance abuse, family dysfunction, and poor education. (Life Course Concept)

Early Onset

Criminal behavior often begins early in life and predicts a longer criminal career. (Life Course Concept)

Persistence and Desistance 

While some individuals persist in crime, others stop as they age or experience turning points. (Life Course Concept)

Sampson and Laub’s Age-Graded Theory

Positive life events, such as marriage or employment, can act as turning points, redirecting individuals from a life of crime. (Key Developmental Theory)

General Theory of Crime

Proposes that low self-control, influenced by poor parenting, is the main factor behind crime. (Key Developmental Theory)

Authority Conflict Pathway

One of the trajectories of crime that starts with stubborn behavior, leading to serious defiance and avoidance of authority.

Convert Pathway

One of the trajectories of crime that begins with minor delinquency and progresses to more serious property crimes.

Overt Pathway

One of the trajectories of crime that starts with minor aggression, escalating to violent crime

Early Intervention

Public policy programs that target at-risk youth can help prevent the development of criminal behavior.

Integrated Treatment Programs

Public policy programs that work on addressing the various influences on criminal behavior, such as social, educational, and family dynamics, can reduce crime