Untitled Flashcards Set

Classical Criminology

A theory that suggests criminals make rational choices to commit crime, based on the principles of deterrence and the certainty of punishment.

Rational Choice Theory

The idea that criminals weigh the benefits and costs before deciding to commit a crime.

Deterrence

The strategy of preventing crime by ensuring that punishment is certain, swift, and proportionate to the crime.

Phrenology

The study of skull shapes as a supposed indicator of criminal tendencies.

Lombroso's Atavism

The theory that criminals are evolutionary throwbacks who exhibit primitive characteristics.

Genetics in Crime

The study of hereditary influences on criminal behavior.

Neurophysiological Factors

Brain abnormalities and neurotransmitter imbalances that may influence criminal behavior.

Psychopathy

A personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy and remorse.

Differential Association Theory

A theory stating that criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others.

Social Disorganization Theory

The theory that crime is linked to urban environments and the breakdown of community structures.

Strain Theory

Robert Merton's theory that crime arises from the discrepancy between societal goals and the means available to achieve them.

Collective Efficacy

The willingness of community members to intervene for the common good.

Labeling Theory

A theory suggesting that being labeled as deviant leads to further deviance.

Self-Control Theory

The theory that low self-control is a primary factor leading to criminal behavior.

White-Collar Crime

Non-violent crime committed for financial gain within a business or professional context.

Organized Crime

Criminal organizations that engage in illegal activities such as drug trafficking or human trafficking.

Juvenile Justice System

A legal framework focused on rehabilitation of juveniles rather than punishment.

Cycle of Escalation

The process where coercive actions escalate due to increased demands and anger between parent and child.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A type of therapy that addresses how thoughts and feelings influence behavior.

Techniques of Neutralization

Justifications used by individuals to excuse or justify deviant behavior.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to favor information that confirms existing beliefs or hypotheses.

Anti-Social Personality Disorder

A mental disorder characterized by a long-term pattern of disregard for others' rights, often leading to criminal behavior.

PCL-R

Psychopathy Checklist-Revised, a tool used to assess the presence of psychopathic traits.

Steroid-Induced Psychosis

A mental health condition that can result in hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia due to steroid use.