Early and Classical Criminological Theories

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Definition

Demonological

Assumes supernatural forces are the cause of criminal behavior

Classical Theory

Hedonism

Neoclassical Theory

Rational Choice

Deterrence

Ecological Theory

Scenario: Jayden
Jayden is a high school junior who has recently been trying new activities. What started with smoking pot, has since turned into trying other drugs with new friends he met at school. Though Jayden has been taught about the dangers of drug use, he likes the way that drugs make him feel and continues to experiment with various substances, always seeking pleasure. In 1-2 sentences, answer the following questions:

1. Which theory best describes Jayden’s pleasure-seeking behavior?

2. Why?

Biological Theories
Theory

Definition

Biological Positivism

Atavism

Physical Stigmata

Based on Lombroso’s theory, criminals can be identified based on facial characteristics

Social Darwinism

Somatypes

Scenario: Paul
Paul was recently arrested for theft. Much of his family is not surprised of Paul’s arrest as his older brother, cousin, and father have also been arrested and served jail sentences for theft and other similar behaviors. In 1-2 sentences, answer the following questions:

1. Based on the theories above, which would best describe the behavior of Paul and his family members that have been arrested?

2. Why?

Sociological Theories
Theory

Definition

Anomie

General Strain Theory

Subcultural Theory

Routine Activities

Social disorganization

Differential Association

Labeling Theory

Conflict Theory

Scenario: Alice
Each workday, Alice follows a similar pattern. After waking up, she takes a 3-mile jog on a route through a neighborhood trail by her home. After her jog, she showers, drinks a cup of coffee, and travels to work using public transportation. She rides the same train each morning and catches the same train each evening to return home. One day, her home is burglarized while she is at work. In 1-2 sentences, answer the following questions:

1. Which theory best describes how and why Alice was selected as a victim?

2. Why?

Sample Solution

Theories of Criminal Behavior

Early Theories

Theory Definition
Classical Theory This theory suggests that individuals are rational beings who weigh the costs and benefits of their actions. Crime occurs when the perceived benefits outweigh the perceived costs.
Positivism This theory posits that criminal behavior is determined by factors beyond individual control, such as biological, psychological, and social factors.

Biological Theories

Theory Definition
Biological Determinism This theory suggests that criminal behavior is determined by biological factors, such as genetics, hormones, or brain abnormalities.
Biosocial Theory This theory combines biological and social factors to explain criminal behavior. It suggests that biological predispositions can interact with environmental factors to influence criminal behavior.

Sociological Theories

Theory Definition
Social Disorganization Theory This theory suggests that crime is more likely to occur in areas with weak social institutions, such as family, schools, and community organizations.
Strain Theory This theory argues that crime occurs when individuals experience strain or stress, such as economic inequality or social injustice.
Social Learning Theory This theory suggests that criminal behavior is learned through observation and imitation.
Control Theory This theory argues that people conform to social norms because of strong social bonds. When these bonds weaken, individuals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior.
Labeling Theory This theory suggests that criminal behavior is a result of societal labeling. Once individuals are labeled as criminals, they are more likely to engage in further criminal behavior.

Applying Theories to Scenarios

Scenario Applicable Theory Explanation
A teenager from a low-income neighborhood joins a gang and becomes involved in drug dealing. Social Disorganization Theory, Social Learning Theory The neighborhood’s lack of social institutions and the influence of delinquent peers may have contributed to the teenager’s involvement in crime.
A person with a history of head injuries exhibits impulsive and aggressive behavior. Biosocial Theory The head injuries may have affected the person’s brain function, making them more prone to criminal behavior.
A highly intelligent individual commits a series of white-collar crimes, such as embezzlement and fraud. Rational Choice Theory The individual may have calculated the potential rewards of the crimes and determined that the risks were low.
A person with a history of substance abuse engages in property crimes to fund their addiction. Strain Theory The individual may be experiencing strain due to their addiction and may resort to crime to cope with their situation.

By applying these theories to real-world scenarios, we can gain a better understanding of the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior. This knowledge can inform the development of effective crime prevention and intervention strategies.

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