Module 25 “Crime: A Sociological Approach”

Crime

A violation of criminal law for which some governmental authority applies formal penalties.

Victimless Crime

Illicit exchanges of goods and services among consenting adults that do not directly harm others.

Professional Crime

Crime committed as a regular occupation by individuals who have developed skill in criminal activities.

Organized Crime

Criminal activities coordinated by groups that regulate relations among criminal enterprises.

White Collar Crime

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

Cybercrime

Illegal activities primarily conducted through computers and the internet.

Hate Crime

A crime motivated by bias against a person's race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, or sexual orientation.

Transnational Crime

Crime that occurs across national borders, involving illegal activities in multiple countries.

Victimization Survey

A method of data collection that seeks information on crime incidents from individuals, rather than police records.

Index Crimes

The eight serious crimes reported annually by the FBI, including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.