Criminology (theories) Exam
Elaboration- Question and Answers
[100% Correct] |Latest Updated Set|
2025 Version
Explain the core principles of the Classical School of Criminology. How do they shape modern legal
systems?
The Classical School of Criminology is based on the idea of free will, rational choice, and the
deterrence theory. It asserts that individuals choose to commit crimes after weighing the benefits and
consequences. Its influence is evident in the development of structured legal systems emphasizing
proportional punishment and deterrence through certainty, swiftness, and severity of penalties.
How does Differential Association Theory explain criminal behavior in a professional white-collar setting?
Differential Association Theory posits that criminal behavior is learned through interaction with
others. In white-collar settings, employees may learn to rationalize unethical practices, normalize illegal
actions, or imitate deviant behaviors from peers or supervisors, thus perpetuating corporate or financial
crimes.
Critically evaluate the role of strain in Merton’s Strain Theory. How does it account for various deviant
adaptations?
Merton's Strain Theory suggests that societal pressure to achieve culturally valued goals, such as
wealth or success, creates strain when legitimate means are unavailable. This strain leads to adaptations
such as conformity, innovation (e.g., theft), ritualism, retreatism (e.g., substance abuse), and rebellion
(e.g., countercultural movements).
How does labeling theory perpetuate recidivism in individuals already involved in the criminal justice
system?
Labeling theory argues that being labeled as a "criminal" leads to internalization of this identity,
limiting legitimate opportunities and reinforcing deviant behavior. Societal stigmatization and systemic
bias push individuals toward subcultures that accept and promote further crime, creating a cycle of
recidivism.
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,Discuss the intersection of social disorganization theory and urban planning. How can crime reduction
strategies be derived from this theory?
Social disorganization theory highlights the relationship between neighborhood structure, such as
poverty and residential instability, and crime rates. Effective urban planning addressing issues like
poverty, enhancing social cohesion through community centers, and improving infrastructure can reduce
disorganization and lower crime rates.
Analyze the feminist critique of mainstream criminological theories. What unique insights does feminist
criminology offer about crime causation?
Feminist criminology critiques traditional theories for ignoring gendered experiences and societal
power dynamics. It emphasizes the role of patriarchy, victimization of women, and systemic inequalities,
offering insights into crimes such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and female incarceration.
In the context of Routine Activities Theory, explain how technological advancements can both increase
and decrease opportunities for crime.
Routine Activities Theory posits that crime occurs when a motivated offender, a suitable target,
and lack of capable guardians converge. Technology reduces crime through surveillance and digital
monitoring but also creates opportunities for cybercrime, identity theft, and online fraud.
What are the implications of General Strain Theory in understanding the motivations behind acts of
terrorism?
General Strain Theory extends strain to include loss of valued stimuli or exposure to negative
conditions. Acts of terrorism may be motivated by perceived oppression, loss of cultural identity, or
inability to achieve political goals through legitimate means, resulting in extreme deviant actions.
Compare and contrast control theory with rational choice theory in explaining juvenile delinquency.
Control theory emphasizes the role of social bonds, such as attachment, commitment, and belief
in societal norms, in preventing deviance. Weak bonds increase the likelihood of delinquency. Rational
choice theory focuses on cost-benefit analysis, where juveniles engage in crime if they perceive the
rewards to outweigh risks.
How does cultural criminology challenge traditional positivist approaches in understanding crime?
Cultural criminology emphasizes the emotional and symbolic dimensions of crime, focusing on
how societal norms, power dynamics, and subcultures shape criminal behavior. It critiques positivist
approaches for ignoring human agency, emotions, and the socio-political context of deviance.
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, Examine the concept of "broken windows" theory and its impact on policing strategies in high-crime
areas.
The "broken windows" theory suggests that visible signs of disorder, such as vandalism or minor
offenses, encourage more serious crime. It advocates for proactive policing in neighborhoods to address
minor infractions in order to prevent larger crimes. However, it has been criticized for disproportionately
targeting marginalized communities and fostering over-policing.
How does social learning theory explain the development of gang culture?
Social learning theory asserts that individuals learn criminal behavior through interactions with
others, especially those who model deviant actions. In gang culture, members learn the values, norms,
and behaviors associated with criminal activities, reinforcing the idea that crime is an acceptable way to
achieve status, power, or wealth.
Critically assess the contribution of the "neutralization theory" to understanding juvenile delinquency.
Neutralization theory suggests that delinquents justify their behavior by rationalizing or
neutralizing guilt. These justifications, such as "everyone does it" or "the victim deserved it," help
juveniles cope with societal norms and engage in deviance without fully rejecting those norms. It
provides insight into the cognitive processes that support delinquency.
Discuss the limitations of the Biosocial Criminology approach in explaining criminal behavior.
Biosocial criminology links biological factors and environmental influences in explaining crime.
While it offers valuable insight into predispositions, such as genetic traits or neurobiological conditions, it
has limitations in accounting for the complexities of social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute
to criminal behavior.
What role does the concept of "anomie" play in explaining deviance in highly industrialized societies?
Anomie, as introduced by Durkheim, refers to a state of normlessness or breakdown in societal
norms and values. In highly industrialized societies, rapid social change, economic inequalities, or
disconnection from traditional norms can lead to feelings of anomie, which may result in deviant
behavior as individuals struggle to adapt or find meaning in their lives.
How does the social bond theory apply to the prevention of corporate crimes?
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