Criminology Theories

Which criminology theory focuses on the role of social and environmental factors in crime?

Which theory believes that crime is a result of the inability to achieve socially approved goals?

Which criminology theory emphasizes the importance of community and social institutions in preventing crime?

Who is a key figure associated with the Social Learning Theory?

Which theory believes that people make rational choices to commit crimes?

Which theory focuses on the role of social labels and stigma in shaping criminal behavior?

What is the main idea behind Lombroso's Theory of Atavism?

Which of the following is a modern biological theory that suggests a link between criminal behavior and genetics?

What is the name of the theory that proposes that body types are associated with different personality traits and criminal tendencies?

What is the study of gene expression and how environmental factors can affect genetic traits, which may influence criminal behavior?

Which biological theory suggests that abnormalities in brain structure and function may contribute to criminal behavior?

What is the main idea behind Biosocial Theories?

Criminology Theories

Classical Theory

Focuses on individual responsibility and free will
Believes that people make rational choices to commit crimes
Emphasizes punishment as a deterrent to crime
Key figures: Cesare Beccaria, Jeremy Bentham

Positivist Theory

Focuses on the role of social and environmental factors in crime
Believes that crime is caused by factors outside of individual control
Emphasizes rehabilitation and treatment of offenders
Key figures: Cesare Lombroso, Enrico Ferri

Chicago School Theory

Focuses on the role of social disorganization and urbanization in crime
Believes that crime is a result of social and economic changes in urban areas
Emphasizes the importance of community and social institutions in preventing crime
Key figures: Robert Park, Ernest Burgess, Robert Merton

Strain Theory

Focuses on the role of social strain and anomie in crime
Believes that crime is a result of the inability to achieve socially approved goals
Emphasizes the importance of social structure and institutions in preventing crime
Key figures: Robert Merton, Albert Cohen

Focuses on the role of learning and imitation in crime
Believes that people learn to commit crimes by observing and imitating others
Emphasizes the importance of social environment and peer groups in shaping criminal behavior
Key figures: Edwin Sutherland, Ronald Akers

Control Theory

Focuses on the role of social bonds and control in preventing crime
Believes that people are more likely to commit crimes when they lack strong social bonds and controls
Emphasizes the importance of family, school, and community in preventing crime
Key figures: Travis Hirschi, Michael Gottfredson

Labeling Theory

Focuses on the role of social labels and stigma in shaping criminal behavior
Believes that people are more likely to commit crimes when they are labeled as deviants or criminals
Emphasizes the importance of social reactions and labeling in shaping criminal identity
Key figures: Howard Becker, Edwin Lemert

Explore the different theories in criminology, including classical, positivist, Chicago school, strain, social learning, control, and labeling theories. Learn about the key figures and concepts behind each theory.