Questions and Answers
Who is primarily associated with the concept of differential association theory in relation to criminal behavior?
What is the main focus of deterrence theory in criminology?
Which theory suggests that societal pressures can lead to criminal behavior due to a disconnection between societal goals and means?
Which criminologist is commonly known for emphasizing the rationality behind crime and advocating for the principle of deterrence?
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What aspect of crime does Lombroso's theory primarily address?
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Study Notes
Differential Association Theory
- Developed by Edwin Sutherland, emphasizing that criminal behavior is learned through social interactions.
- Suggests individuals become criminals if they associate more with those who advocate criminal behavior than with those who do not.
White-Collar Crime
- Sutherland provided the definition: crimes committed by individuals in their professional life, using their position within an organization.
- Examples include fraud, embezzlement, and insider trading, highlighting that crime is not limited to street crime.
Deterrence Theory
- A theory in criminology that posits the certainty, severity, and swiftness of punishment can prevent crime.
- Emphasizes that the fear of consequences can deter individuals from engaging in criminal activity.
Stafford and Warr
- Contributed to the deterrence theory by introducing a personal stake concept, linking punishment with perceived costs and benefits of crime.
- Proposed that informal social controls, like disapproval from family and peers, also serve as deterrents.
Lombroso and Criminal Behavior
- Cesare Lombroso, known for the biological perspective of criminal behavior, proposed the idea of the "born criminal."
- Suggested that physical characteristics could indicate a propensity for criminality, though this theory has been largely discredited.
Anomie Theory
- Associated with Émile Durkheim, explaining the breakdown of social norms and values leading to a state of normlessness.
- Argues that anomie contributes to higher rates of deviance and crime, particularly in times of social upheaval.
Cesare Beccaria's Classical Theory
- Beccaria's work laid the foundation for modern criminology, advocating for a rational and systematic approach to punishment.
- Emphasized that punishments should be proportionate, designed to deter crime rather than retaliate, favoring the prevention of crime through a fair legal system.
Strain Theory
- Developed by Robert Merton, posits that societal pressures and unequal opportunities can lead individuals to commit crimes.
- Suggests that when people are unable to achieve societal goals through legitimate means, they may resort to illegal activities to attain success.
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Description
Explore key criminology theories in this quiz, including differential association, strain theory, and anomie theory. Learn about the contributions of important figures like Sutherland, Beccaria, and Lombroso. Test your understanding of these concepts and their relevance to white-collar crime and criminal behavior.
