5.7 Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the motivations behind criminal behavior has long been a subject of study for scholars and researchers. In this chapter, we have explored various perspectives, ranging from classical theories to modern explanations rooted in biology, psychology, and sociology. By examining these theories, we have gained insight into the diverse factors that contribute to criminal acts and their implications for the U.S. criminal justice system.
As we continue to learn about the complexities surrounding crime and its explanations, we are better equipped to address the underlying causes and develop more effective strategies for prevention and intervention. Finally, history has shown us to approach theories with a critical eye, recognizing that they are frameworks for understanding rather than absolute truths. Moreover, we must remain vigilant against the perpetuation of racism, sexism, and other forms of bias under the guise of theory, ensuring that our explorations of crime and its causes are rooted in evidence-based analysis and a commitment to justice and equality for all individuals within society.
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish between classical, positivism, and other (biological and psychological 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.
Review of Key Terms
- Control theories: Theories or explanations of why more people do not engage in illegal behavior and assume people are naturally selfish and, if left alone, will commit illegal and immoral acts
- Feminist criminology: Feminist criminology is a critical framework that seeks to understand the relationship between gender, crime, and justice.
- Hedonism: The assumption that people will seek maximum pleasure and avoid pain
- Labeling theories: Theories that try to explain why not everyone who commits a crime is labeled as a criminal and that point to the social construction of crime, which varies over time and place.
- Learning theories: Theories that focus on the content and process of learning.
- Positivism: The use of empirical evidence through scientific inquiry to improve society.
- Situational crime prevention: Crime prevention strategies try to reduce crime by making crime a less attractive choice
- Strain theories: Theories that assume that human beings are naturally good but that bad things happen, which push people into criminal activity.
- Theory: An explanation to make sense of our observations about the world.
Self-Comprehension Check
Review of Critical Thinking Questions
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?
Licenses and Attributions for Conclusion
“Conclusion” by Roxie Supplee is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The criminal justice system is a major social institution that is tasked with controlling crime in various ways. It includes police, courts, and the correction system.
An explanation that attempts to make sense of our observations about the world.
An approach to criminology that emphasizes the use of scientific methods to study crime and develop solutions.
