UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY

(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)

VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@gmail.com
GRADUATE SCHOOL

INDIVIDUAL REPORT MANUSCRIPT

Date Submitted: November 24, 2023

Course/Year: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Education – 1A
Subject: MSCJ 202 – Foundation of Criminology
Name of Reporter/s/Presenter/s: ----
Title of the Report: Situational Crime Prevention, Neutralization
Theory, RAT
Date of Presentation: ----
==================================================================

SITUATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION

Introduction:

Situational Crime Prevention stands as a proactive paradigm in addressing criminal

activities by targeting the environmental and situational factors that facilitate offenses.
This report delves into the theories underpinning situational crime prevention, explores
its practical applications, and examines various strategies employed to deter criminal
behavior.

Body of the Report:

1. Theoretical Frameworks:
- Routine Activity Theory: Analyzing the role of routine activities in shaping crime
patterns.
- Rational Choice Theory: Investigating the decision-making processes leading to
criminal acts.
- Crime Pattern Theory: Examining spatial and temporal patterns in criminal behavior.

2. Principles of Situational Crime Prevention:

- Defining key principles like target hardening, controlling access, and increasing
surveillance.
- Exploring the concept of “opportunity structures” and their impact on criminal
opportunities.

3. Practical Applications:
 UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY
(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)
VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@gmail.com
GRADUATE SCHOOL

- Case studies illustrating successful implementations of situational crime prevention in

diverse settings.
- The role of environmental design, including Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design (CPTED).

4. Strategies and Techniques:

- Examining specific strategies like neighborhood watch programs and community
policing.
- Assessing the use of technology, such as CCTV systems and smart city initiatives, in
crime prevention.

5. Challenges and Critiques:

- Addressing potential drawbacks and ethical considerations related to increased
surveillance.
- Recognizing limitations and critiques of situational crime prevention.

6. Integration with Other Approaches:

- Discussing intersections with social and community-based crime prevention
approaches.
- Identifying synergies and potential conflicts with complementary strategies.

Conclusion/s:

In conclusion, this report synthesizes the multifaceted landscape of situational crime

prevention, highlighting its theoretical foundations, practical applications, and associated
challenges. Situational crime prevention, when integrated effectively with other crime
prevention approaches, emerges as a powerful tool in fostering safer communities.

Recommendations:

Based on the discussions presented, it is recommended that future implementations of

situational crime prevention strategies consider the evolving landscape of technology,
community dynamics, and ethical considerations. Additionally, fostering interdisciplinary
collaborations can enhance the effectiveness of crime prevention initiatives.

Reference/s:

What is situational crime prevention?,

https://www.college.police.uk/guidance/neighbourhood-crime/what-situational-crime-
prevention#:~:text=Situational%20crime%20prevention%20focuses%20on,occur
%20(Clarke%2C%201997).
 UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY
(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)
VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@gmail.com
GRADUATE SCHOOL

NEUTRALIZATION THEORY

Introduction:

The Neutralization Theory of Crime provides a unique lens through which to understand
the cognitive processes that individuals engage in to rationalize or neutralize their
deviant behavior. This report explores the key tenets of the Neutralization Theory, its
theoretical underpinnings, and its implications for our understanding of criminal
behavior.

Body of the Report:

1. Overview of Neutralization Theory:

- Defining the Neutralization Theory and its roots in the work of Gresham Sykes and
David Matza.
- Exploring the concept of neutralizations as justifications for deviant actions.

2. Techniques of Neutralization:
- Detailing the five primary techniques individuals use to neutralize moral and social
controls.
- Examples illustrating how these techniques operate in real-world situations.

3. Application in Criminal Justice:

- Analyzing how neutralization theory can inform criminal justice practices and policies.
- Evaluating its relevance in understanding recidivism and rehabilitation efforts.

4. Empirical Studies:
- Reviewing empirical studies that have tested and validated the concepts of
neutralization theory.
- Highlighting key findings and implications from these studies.

5. Critiques and Limitations:

- Examining criticisms and limitations of the Neutralization Theory.
- Considering alternative explanations for criminal behavior and delinquency.

6. Comparative Analysis:
- Comparing Neutralization Theory with other criminological theories.
- Exploring intersections and potential complementarities with theories like Social
Learning Theory.

Conclusion/s:
 UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY
(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)
VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@gmail.com
GRADUATE SCHOOL

In conclusion, the Neutralization Theory offers valuable insights into the cognitive
mechanisms that individuals employ to rationalize their involvement in criminal activities.
While acknowledging its contributions, it is crucial to consider its limitations and engage
in further research to refine our understanding of its applicability in diverse contexts.

Recommendations:

This report recommends continued exploration of the Neutralization Theory through

interdisciplinary research, considering its integration with other criminological
frameworks. Additionally, practitioners in the field of criminal justice should be aware of
the nuances of neutralization techniques when devising intervention and rehabilitation
strategies.

Reference/s:

David Matza, Gresham Sykes (1957), Techniques of Neutralization: A Theory of

Delinquency

ROUTINE ACTIVITY THEORY

Introduction:

The Routine Activity Theory presents a compelling framework for understanding crime
by focusing on the everyday activities and routines of individuals. This report delves into
the foundational principles of the Routine Activity Theory, its emergence in criminology,
and its implications for shaping crime prevention strategies.

Body of the Report:

1. The Emergence of Routine Activity Theory:

- Tracing the historical development of the theory, with a spotlight on Marcus Felson
and Lawrence E. Cohen’s seminal work.
- Discussing the departure from traditional criminological perspectives and the shift
toward a focus on routine activities.

2. Core Concepts of Routine Activity Theory:

- Defining key concepts such as “routine activities,” “suitable targets,” and “capable
guardians.”
- Exploring the interaction of these elements in the context of crime commission and
prevention.
 UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY
(formerly Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao)
VICTOR VENTURA PEREZ (VVP) CAMPUS,
TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES 3500
BALZAIN CAMPUS: (078) 844-1147 Local 218 – (Trunk Line)(078) 844-8978 – (Fax)
Email add: criminologydept20@gmail.com
GRADUATE SCHOOL

3. Practical Applications and Case Studies:

- Examining real-world applications of Routine Activity Theory in various settings.
- Showcasing case studies that illustrate how changes in routine activities impact
crime rates.

4. Technology and Routine Activity Theory:

- Analyzing the role of technology in shaping routine activities and subsequently
influencing crime.
- Exploring how advancements in communication and transportation impact the
theory’s applicability.

5. Criticisms and Limitations:

- Discussing critiques of Routine Activity Theory, including its simplicity and potential
for oversimplification.
- Addressing limitations and areas where the theory may fall short in explaining certain
types of crime.

6. Contemporary Relevance:
- Assessing the ongoing relevance of the Routine Activity Theory in the face of societal
and technological advancements.
- Discussing its adaptability to address emerging forms of criminal activity.

Conclusion/s:

In conclusion, the Routine Activity Theory provides a valuable lens for understanding the
dynamic interplay between routine activities and criminal opportunities. While
acknowledging its contributions, it is important to consider its limitations and encourage
further research to enhance its applicability in diverse and evolving contexts.

Recommendations:

This report recommends continued exploration of Routine Activity Theory in conjunction

with other criminological frameworks. Additionally, practitioners and policymakers should
leverage insights from this theory to develop targeted and context-specific crime
prevention measures.

Reference/s:

Routine activity theory crime prevention, routine_activity_factsheet_nov2014.pdf