Crime and Delinquency Exam 1

Rational Choice Theory

A theory suggesting that individuals make decisions based on a rational calculation of the costs and benefits of their actions, often used to explain criminal behavior.

Situational Crime Prevention

Increase the likelihood of getting caught, increase risk, increased protection of people, propertyand reduce opportunities for crime.

General Deterrence

The strategy of preventing crime by instilling fear of punishment in the general population, thereby discouraging potential offenders. Has to be greater than the reward.

Specific Deterrence

A strategy aimed at preventing recidivism by imposing a punishment on an individual offender, making them less likely to commit future crimes.

Biochemical Factors

Refers to the influence of biological and chemical processes in the body that may affect behavior and contribute to criminal activity, including genetics, hormones, and neurotransmitter levels. Ex. lead poisoning, drugs, steriods

Neurological Dysfunction

refers to impairments in brain function that may affect behavior and contribute to criminal behavior, such as issues with impulse control or decision-making. Specifically damage to the frontal lobe-decision making or amygdala-emotions

Genetic Theory

A perspective that suggests genetic factors can influence an individual's propensity for criminal behavior, often examining hereditary traits and biological predispositions. The nature side of the nature vs nurture debate.

Psychodynamic Theory

A psychological perspective that emphasizes the influence of unconscious motives and early childhood experiences on behavior, suggesting that unresolved conflicts can lead to criminal behavior. Id-shoulder devil, super ego- shoulder angel- and ego balancing between them.

Behavioral Theory

A psychological perspective that focuses on the role of environmental influences and learned behaviors in shaping individual actions, suggesting that criminal behavior can be learned through reinforcement and observation. Like if your dad was a criminal you’d learn from him. Nurture side of nature vs nurture debate.

Cognitive Theory

A psychological perspective that explores how thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions influence behavior, positing that distorted thinking patterns can lead to criminal actions.

Social Disorganization Theory

A sociological perspective that attributes crime to the breakdown of social institutions and community structures, suggesting that areas with weakened social cohesion experience higher rates of criminal behavior. Transitional Neighborhoods, Concentric Zones, Siege Mentality, Collective Efficacy

Relative Deprivation Theory

A sociological perspective that explains crime as a result of the perceived disparity between what individuals have and what they believe they deserve. This theory suggests that feelings of deprivation can lead to frustration and criminal behavior, especially in economically disadvantaged communities.

Anomie/Strain Theory

A sociological theory that suggests crime occurs when individuals experience a disconnect between societal goals and the means available to achieve them, leading to feelings of normlessness or strain.

People who don’t follow conventional (legal) ways of achieving their goals are called innovators. People who do follow conventional means to achieve their goals are called conformists.