There are four basic theories of crime, and knowing and understanding each one is imperative for one to succeed in any legal profession. Whether one desires to become a lawyer, crime scene investigator, law enforcement officer, they will need to understand the different theories of crime. Understanding these theories will help with dispute resolution, crime identification, justice for all.
Human beings are rational and make decisions freely and with an understanding of the consequences
Crime is an immoral form of human behaviour
Such behaviour weakens society
Punishment is a necessary evil sometimes intended to deter criminals and serve as an example to those who would violate the law
Crime prevention is possible through swift and certain punishment that counters possible gains from criminal behaviour
More prisons and stiffer criminal laws with greater penalties for offenders are the best solutions to crime
Punishment is a necessary evil sometimes intended to deter criminals and serve as an example to those who would violate the law
Crime prevention is possible through swift and certain punishment that counters possible gains from criminal behaviour
More prisons and stiffer criminal laws with greater penalties for offenders are the best solutions to crime
Biological Theory
The basic determinants of human behaviour are to a considerable degree, determined by genetics
These basic determinants of human behaviour may be passed from one generation to the next
Human DNA, environmental contaminants, nutrition, hormones, trauma to the brain, exposure to drugs and alcohol during pregnancy and body chemistry can all contribute to criminal behaviour.
Historically, individuals with genetic defects have been sterilized (meaning there will be no offspring)
Research to find genes that encourage criminal behaviour
Research into medicines (tranquillizers, anti-psychotic drugs and other mood-altering drugs to control behaviour)
Sociological Theory
Social Environment as the cause of criminal behaviour
Weak, broken bonds with family, school, religion as a catalyst to human behaviour
People engage in criminal behaviour because they do not see the benefits of adhering to conventional social values and believe that crime is a way to improve their social, financial conditions
Positive alternatives divert people’s actions away from criminal activity and create a sense of belonging, competence, and empowerment
Social programs that change the cultural and social conditions that lead people to crime
Government programs with funding to alleviate poverty
Positive alternatives divert people’s actions away from criminal activity and create a sense of belonging, competence, and empowerment
Social programs that change the cultural and social conditions that lead people to crime
Government programs with funding to alleviate poverty
Interactionist Theory
Association with other criminals is the factor most contributing to criminal behaviour among individuals.
Failure of self-direction and inadequate social roles are the root causes of behaviour
Individuals are looking for acceptance, social standing and power within that group
Offenders have the responsibility and ability to change their own behaviours
Opportunities for positive interaction with society will enable the criminal to choose productive and lawful behaviours to meet the needs
Offenders have the responsibility and ability to change their own behaviours
Opportunities for positive interaction with society will enable the criminal to choose productive and lawful behaviours to meet the needs
How are you sir. Good work sir i real appreciate the work done as prosecutor. keep it up.
Yes
I’m interested in joining the discussion. Great article
Aren’t there five of them?
I’m interested in this area. You may wish to include my name please. Thank you!