Feminism

Overview of Feminist Theory in Criminology

• Feminist theory has evolved from Women's Studies into a key influence in criminology.

• The paper evaluates feminist theory/methods and their applications in crime and justice studies.

• Highlights issues within theoretical frameworks and future directions for feminist contributions in criminology.

Early Assumptions in Criminology

• Androcentrism in Criminological Theories:

  • Traditional criminological theories often treat men as the default standard.

  • Critics, such as Heidensohn, Klein, and Smart, argue that these theories overlook female perspectives.

  • Female experiences as offenders and victims are frequently neglected in crime studies.

• Historical Mischaracterization of Women:

  • Pre-1970s research often depicted deviant women negatively (e.g., hysterical, manipulative).

  • Criminal behaviors were often attributed to an inherent 'female nature.'

Feminism: Perspectives and Methods

• What is Feminism?

  • Feminism encompasses diverse perspectives aiming to address gender inequality and oppression.

  • Originally focused on issues unique to women, has expanded to analyze gendered social structures.

Types of Feminism in Criminology

1. Liberal Feminism:

   • Advocates for legal and social equality; proposes gender role 'androgynization'.

   • Sees gender discrimination as a product of societal attitudes, not systemic oppression.

2. Socialist Feminism:

   • Frames capitalism as a key factor in gender oppression; integrates class analysis.

   • Emphasizes that both class and gender inequalities must be addressed.

3. Radical Feminism:

   • Argues that patriarchy stems from male aggression and sexual control.

   • Considers sexual politics essential in understanding women's oppression.

4. Feminism of Women of Color:

   • Highlights the unique experiences and needs of women of color in feminist discourse.

   • Critiques mainstream feminism as predominantly white and middle-class.

Feminist Methodologies

• Feminist research often challenges traditional scientific methods, advocating for a more subjective perspective.

• Emphasizes qualitative methods to include women's unique experiences.

• Attempts to integrate personal narratives to reveal hidden dimensions of gender and crime.

Key Areas of Feminist Criminology

1. The Female Offender

• Research historically underrepresented women, failing to provide adequate explanations for female crime.

• Studies have shown female crime is closely linked with economic and social conditions, not merely liberation movements.

• Challenged the