5.8 Conclusion
In this chapter, we focused on theories that explore the reasons behind why some people may commit crime. We covered these different theories and reasons while discussing how these historical views have impacted the current U.S. criminal justice system. Finally we looked at the theoretical background of Crime Prevention Science solutions that have helped explain and contextualize some crime problems.
5.8.1 Learning Objectives
- Distinguish between classical, positivism, and other (biological, psychological, and sociological) explanations of criminal behavior.
- Recognize the links between crime control policy and theories of criminal behavior.
- Demonstrate effective application of criminological theories to behavior.
- Explain the major social structures in America and their relationship to crime theories.
- Describe the criminological theories that support crime prevention science or CPSc Solutions.
5.8.2 Review of Key Terms
- control theories
- crime prevention science (CPSc) solutions
- feminist theories
- hedonism
- labeling theories
- learning theories
- positivism
- situational crime prevention
- social disorganization
- strain theories
- theory
5.8.3 Review of Critical Thinking Questions Box
Now that you have read the chapter, return to these questions to gauge how much you’ve learned:
- How do we know what theories explain crime better than other theories?
- How did the classical theory of crime influence the American criminal justice system?
- Why is it difficult to study biological theories of crime without thinking about the social environment?
- Which theory do you think explains criminal behavior the best? Why?
- Why do you think there have been so many different explanations to describe the origins of criminal behavior?