2025 WJEC Criminology Exam Guide: Officially Updated Questions and Answers for Guaranteed Success
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Module
Criminology
Institution
Criminology
2025 WJEC Criminology Exam Guide:
Officially Updated Questions and
Answers for Guaranteed Success
How do postmodernist criminologists challenge traditional theories of crime, and what are their
contributions to understanding criminal behavior?
Postmodernist criminologists challenge tradit...
2025 WJEC Criminology Exam Guide:
Officially Updated Questions and
Answers for Guaranteed Success
How do postmodernist criminologists challenge traditional theories of crime, and what are their
contributions to understanding criminal behavior?
Postmodernist criminologists challenge traditional theories by emphasizing the fluid and
subjective nature of crime and deviance. They argue that crime is not a fixed concept but rather a social
construct shaped by power relations, media portrayals, and cultural narratives.
In what ways do the concepts of "social disorganization" and "collective efficacy" explain crime rates in
urban communities?
Social disorganization theory suggests that crime is more likely in neighborhoods with weak social
institutions and lack of social cohesion. Collective efficacy refers to the ability of residents to maintain
social control and prevent crime, arguing that strong community bonds can reduce crime even in
disadvantaged areas.
Critically examine the relationship between mental illness and criminal behavior, considering both
psychological and sociological perspectives.
Psychological perspectives often argue that mental illness can lead to criminal behavior due to
impaired judgment or lack of impulse control. Sociological perspectives suggest that societal factors,
such as stigma and exclusion, may exacerbate mental illness, increasing the likelihood of individuals
engaging in criminal activity.
How does the concept of "gendered justice" address the challenges faced by women in the criminal
justice system, and what reforms have been proposed to improve their treatment?
Gendered justice acknowledges that women face unique challenges in the criminal justice
system, such as gender-based violence or systemic discrimination. Reforms have been proposed to
address these issues, including gender-responsive rehabilitation programs, specialized courts, and
policies to address the over-criminalization of women.
Discuss the impact of mass incarceration on families and communities, focusing on the social, economic,
and psychological effects.
1
, Mass incarceration has devastating effects on families and communities, particularly in
marginalized groups. Socially, it disrupts family structures and increases poverty. Economically, families
may experience financial strain due to loss of income, while psychologically, individuals may face trauma,
stigma, and emotional strain.
What role does "criminogenic need" play in rehabilitative strategies, and how does it influence
individualized treatment for offenders?
Criminogenic needs refer to factors that contribute to criminal behavior, such as substance abuse,
lack of education, or antisocial attitudes. Rehabilitation strategies that address these needs are more
likely to be effective, as they focus on modifying the root causes of criminal behavior rather than just the
symptoms.
How does the concept of "victim-blaming" impact the criminal justice process, and what are the
consequences for victims of crime?
Victim-blaming occurs when the victim is held partially responsible for the crime committed
against them, often due to their actions or behavior. This mentality can discourage victims from
reporting crimes, perpetuate social stigmas, and result in inadequate support or justice for the victims.
What is the role of the "culture of control" in contemporary criminal justice policy, and how does it
shape the criminalization of certain behaviors?
The culture of control refers to a societal shift toward greater reliance on punitive measures to
control crime, emphasizing surveillance, incarceration, and policing. This approach has contributed to
the criminalization of behaviors, particularly in marginalized communities, by focusing on punishment
rather than prevention or rehabilitation.
Critically analyze the "routine activities theory" in relation to crimes like burglary, considering the impact
of technological advancements on criminal opportunities.
Routine activities theory suggests that crime occurs when a motivated offender encounters a
suitable target without capable guardianship. Technological advancements, such as home security
systems or the internet, have altered these dynamics by reducing the suitability of targets or providing
new opportunities for crime.
Explain how “criminological positivism” differs from "classical criminology" in understanding criminal
behavior, with a focus on determinism versus free will.
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