4.1 right realism influence on policy development

What is CCTV?

A crime control policy- The rational choice theory has had an influence on increasing the amount of CCTV in areas. CCTV is a surveillance system in which people are monitored and aware that they are being monitored by cameras. This has been influenced by the rational choice study which suggests that people are less likely to commit crimes when there is high levels of CCTV.

Is CCTV effective?

Effective- can act as a general deterrence- They know they are being watched, so will think twice about crimes such as theft and vandalism. Increases the cost involved for offenders when making a rational choice. Threats of surveillance produces self discipline in which individuals police their own behaviour through fear.

Not effective- invasion of privacy, didn’t always achieve deterrence, for example, offenders could wear a mask. Limited coverage in some places as only covers specific angles. Only used for crimes outside of the home such as property crime which means there is no deterrence or surveillance of crimes inside the home such as domestic abuse.

What is zero tolerance policing?

a crime control and state punishment policy- Wilson and keiling Use the broken windows thesis to argue that an area with vandalism and litter sends out a message that nobody cares- offenders will start off with low-level crimes and this spirals as they don’t get caught. They argue for an environmental improvement strategy and a zero tolerance policing strategy- a policing strategy that involves relentless order maintenance and aggressive law-enforcement, against even minor crimes and incivilities.

Is zero tolerance policy effective?

Effective- crime fell in New York after zero tolerance policing was introduced. Could reduce youth crime as kids are more likely to be threatened by police. Law abiding members of society may be more willing to stay in an area where zero tolerance policing is enforced for protection.

Not effective- 8 out of 10 studies showed that there was no significant difference between areas using zero tolerance policing compared to areas using traditional policing methods this shows that is not an effective study. It costs money to put police in certain areas. It can lead to military policing which in turn leads to poor relations with the police. It doesn’t address the cause of crime, for example poverty.

What is penal populism and prison?

A state punishment policy- Right realists believe that criminals make a rational choice to commit crime and therefore they argue if the cost is high it will reduce criminality. From the 1990s government brought in tougher punishments known as ‘ penal populism’ including tougher prison sentences. The idea is that by increasing prison sentences, others will be deterred in the hope of avoiding harsh punishment.

Is prison effective?

Effective- reform is arguably one of the most important reasons why prisons are vital. It improves prisoners mental health, Improving prisoners progress in maths and English, can talk on phone regularly. rehabilitation can help reform offenders who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse- Improve skills and helps to change behaviour ready for society.

Not effective- in 2018 that was 69 suicide in prisons, five homicides, 44,000 reported incidents of self harm and 8400 reported assaults on staff. None of the education options in the prison were suitable as some people already have English and maths. phone is costly. Constant racism. High rate of reoffending. Disproportionate punishments to the working class.