SAINT JOSEPH COLLEGE OF SINDANGAN INCORPORATED

THEORIES OF CRIME CAUSATION

(CRIM 200)

Submitted by: Glindah Avril C. Sar

Submitted to: Diel Anthony Sagang

 THEORIES OF CRIME CAUSATION (CRIM
200) RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT

INSTRUCTION: Answer the questions thoroughly, 500

words each.

1. Compare and contrast the biological, psychological, and

sociological theories of crime causation. How do these
perspectives differ in their explanations of criminal behavior, and
what are the implications for understanding and addressing crime
in society?

The biological, psychological, and sociological theories of

crime causation each offer unique perspectives on understanding
criminal behavior.

Biological theories of crime causation focus on the idea that

genetics, brain abnormalities, and physiological factors
contribute to an individual’s likelihood of engaging in criminal
behavior. For example, the theory of genetic inheritance suggests
that criminal behavior may be passed down through family
generations, predisposing certain individuals to criminal acts.
Neurological studies have also shown that differences in brain
structure and function can impact an individual’s ability to control
impulses and make decisions, leading to criminal behavior. These
theories suggest that some individuals may have a biological
predisposition towards criminal behavior, which influences their
likelihood of engaging in illegal activities.

On the other hand, psychological theories of crime causation

emphasize the role of individual personality traits, cognitive
processes, and social learning experiences in shaping criminal
behavior. For example, the psychodynamic theory suggests that
unresolved childhood conflicts and unconscious motivations can
drive individuals to engage in criminal activities. Cognitive
theories highlight the role of distorted thinking patterns and
irrational beliefs in influencing criminal behavior. Additionally,
social learning theory posits that individuals learn criminal
behavior through interactions with deviant peers and exposure to
criminal role models. These theories suggest that individual
differences in personality, cognition, and socialization
experiences can contribute to the development of criminal
behavior.

In contrast, sociological theories of crime causation focus on

the influence of social forces, such as poverty, inequality, and
social disorganization, on criminal behavior. For example, strain
theory suggests that individuals engage in criminal behavior as a
response to societal pressures and limitations, such as lack of
economic opportunities or discrimination. Social disorganization
theory emphasizes the impact of community characteristics, such
as high levels of poverty and unemployment, on rates of crime
and delinquency. Additionally, social control theory posits that
weak social bonds and ineffective social institutions can
contribute to the likelihood of criminal behavior. These theories
highlight the role of social structures and processes in shaping
individual behavior and criminal outcomes.

Overall, the biological, psychological, and sociological

theories of crime causation offer different perspectives on the
factors that contribute to criminal behavior. While biological
theories focus on genetic and physiological influences,
psychological theories emphasize individual personality traits
and cognitive processes, and sociological theories highlight the
impact of social forces on criminal behavior.

Understanding these different perspectives is important for

developing effective strategies to address crime in society. For
example, interventions based on biological theories may focus on
identifying individuals at risk for criminal behavior through
genetic testing or brain imaging techniques. Psychological
interventions may target cognitive distortions and maladaptive
coping strategies that contribute to criminal behavior.
Sociological interventions may involve addressing underlying
social issues, such as poverty and inequality, that create
conditions conducive to criminal behavior.

By considering the insights provided by each of these

perspectives, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and social
service providers can develop comprehensive approaches to
preventing and reducing crime in society. Rather than focusing on
a single explanation of criminal behavior, a holistic understanding
that integrates biological, psychological, and sociological factors
can inform more effective strategies for addressing crime and
promoting public safety.

2. Discuss the role of social structure and social disorganization

in the development of criminal behavior according to sociological
theories of crime causation. How do factors such as poverty,
inequality, and community breakdown contribute to the
likelihood of individuals engaging in criminal activities?

Sociological theories of crime causation emphasize the role

of social structure and social disorganization in shaping
individuals' likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior. These
theories suggest that factors such as poverty, inequality, and
community breakdown can contribute to the development of
criminal activities by creating environments that lack social
control mechanisms and opportunities for legitimate success.

One key concept in sociological theories of crime causation

is social disorganization. Social disorganization refers to the
breakdown of social institutions, such as family, schools, and
community organizations, which typically provide social control
and support for individuals. When social institutions are weak or
fragmented, individuals may lack the social bonds and resources
necessary to resist criminal influences and engage in prosocial
behavior. As a result, communities experiencing social
disorganization may have higher rates of crime and delinquency.
 One of the primary factors contributing to social
disorganization is poverty. Poverty is associated with a lack of
resources, limited opportunities for economic advancement, and
increased stress and frustration. Individuals living in poverty may
turn to criminal activities as a means of survival or as a response
to the perceived injustice of their circumstances. Additionally, the
strain caused by poverty can lead to feelings of alienation and
marginalization, further weakening social bonds and increasing
the likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior.

Inequality is another factor that contributes to social

disorganization and the development of criminal activities.
Economic and social disparities between individuals and groups
can create feelings of resentment, envy, and social exclusion.
Individuals who perceive themselves as disadvantaged or unfairly
treated may turn to criminal behavior as a way to gain status,
power, or material goods. Inequality can also lead to social
fragmentation and conflict, further undermining social cohesion
and increasing the risk of criminal activities within communities.

Community breakdown is another factor that plays a

significant role in the development of criminal behavior
according to sociological theories. When communities lack strong
social networks, cohesive relationships, and effective social
institutions, individuals may feel disconnected from others and
lack a sense of belonging and responsibility. As a result, social
control mechanisms, such as informal social norms and collective
supervision, may be weakened, allowing for the emergence of
criminal subcultures and behaviors within the community.
 Overall, sociological theories of crime causation emphasize
the importance of social structure and social disorganization in
shaping individuals' propensity towards engaging in criminal
activities. Factors such as poverty, inequality, and community
breakdown can create conditions that increase the likelihood of
individuals turning to criminal behavior as a way of coping with
their circumstances or seeking alternative means of achieving
their goals. By addressing these underlying social issues and
strengthening social institutions and networks, communities can
work towards preventing and reducing crime and promoting
social cohesion and well-being.

3. Explore the influence of strain theory, social learning theory,

and control theory in explaining criminal behavior. How do these
theories conceptualize the relationship between societal
pressures, individual motivations, and the likelihood of engaging
in deviant or criminal acts?

Strain theory, social learning theory, and control theory are

important sociological perspectives that seek to explain criminal
behavior by focusing on the relationship between societal
pressures, individual motivations, and the likelihood of engaging
in deviant or criminal acts.

Strain theory, developed by Robert Merton, posits that

individuals turn to crime as a response to the strain caused by their
inability to achieve socially valued goals through legitimate
means. According to Merton, society places a strong emphasis on
success and the pursuit of material wealth, but not all individuals
have equal access to the means to achieve these goals. When
individuals experience strain, such as poverty, discrimination, or
lack of opportunities, they may feel frustrated and turn to criminal
behavior as a way to attain success or alleviate their feelings of
inadequacy. Strain theory highlights how societal pressures and
structural inequalities can lead individuals to engage in criminal
acts as a means of coping with their circumstances.

Social learning theory, developed by Edwin Sutherland,

emphasizes the role of socialization processes and interactions in
influencing individuals' likelihood of engaging in criminal
behavior. According to this theory, individuals learn criminal
behavior through observation, imitation, and reinforcement from
others, particularly deviant peers and role models. The theory
suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in criminal
acts if they are exposed to and learn from others who engage in
such behavior. Social learning theory conceptualizes criminal
behavior as a learned behavior that is shaped by social
environments and interactions, highlighting the importance of
social influences and interpersonal relationships in shaping
individuals' motivations and behaviors.

Control theory, developed by Travis Hirschi, focuses on the

role of social bonds and attachments in deterring individuals from
engaging in criminal activities. Control theory suggests that
individuals are less likely to engage in deviant or criminal
behavior when they are strongly bonded to conventional social
institutions, such as family, school, and community. These social
bonds create a stake in conformity and deter individuals from
risking their relationships and attachments through criminal acts.
Control theory conceptualizes criminal behavior as a result of
weakened social bonds and ineffective social controls,
highlighting the importance of attachment, commitment,
involvement, and belief in societal norms in preventing
individuals from engaging in deviant behavior.

Overall, strain theory, social learning theory, and control

theory offer complementary perspectives on the influence of
societal pressures, individual motivations, and social bonds in
shaping criminal behavior. These theories underscore the
complex interplay between social structures, individual
experiences, and social interactions in influencing individuals'
likelihood of engaging in deviant or criminal acts. By
understanding how these factors interact and influence
individuals' behaviors, policymakers and interventions can
develop targeted strategies to prevent and address criminal
behavior and promote social well-being and public safety.

4. Analyze the impact of labeling theory and differential

association theory on our understanding of crime causation. How
do these theories challenge traditional notions of criminality and
suggest that societal reactions and interpersonal relationships play
a crucial role in shaping individuals' involvement in criminal
activities?
 Labeling theory and differential association theory provide
insightful perspectives on crime causation by emphasizing the
impact of societal reactions and interpersonal relationships on
shaping individuals' involvement in criminal activities. These
theories challenge traditional notions of criminality by
highlighting the dynamic and social nature of criminal behavior,
suggesting that individuals' interactions with others and societal
responses to their behavior play a crucial role in determining their
trajectory towards crime. Labeling theory posits that the labels
individuals receive from society, such as being labeled as
"criminal" or "deviant," can influence their self-concept and
behavior. Once an individual is labeled as a criminal, they may
internalize this identity and adopt the behaviors associated with
it. This process, known as a self-fulfilling prophecy, can lead to a
cycle of criminal behavior as individuals conform to others'
expectations and perceptions of them. Labeling theory challenges
the traditional view of criminality as an inherent individual
characteristic, suggesting that societal reactions and labeling
practices can contribute to the development and persistence of
criminal behaviors. Differential association theory, on the other
hand, focuses on how individuals learn criminal behavior through
their interactions with others. This theory posits that individuals
are more likely to engage in criminal activities if they are exposed
to deviant values, attitudes, and behaviors within their social
networks. By associating with individuals who engage in criminal
behavior, individuals internalize these values and norms,
increasing their likelihood of engaging in criminal activities
themselves. Differential association theory challenges the idea
that criminal behavior is solely a result of individual personality
traits or pathological tendencies, highlighting the role of social
influences and interpersonal relationships in shaping individuals'
involvement in crime. Both labeling theory and differential
association theory challenge traditional notions of criminality by
emphasizing the importance of social interactions and societal
reactions in shaping individuals' behavior. These theories suggest
that criminal behavior is not solely a result of individual choice
or inherent traits but is influenced by social processes,
relationships, and environmental factors. By focusing on the
social context in which criminal behavior occurs, these theories
offer a more nuanced understanding of crime causation and
highlight the need to consider broader social factors when
addressing criminal activities. Understanding the impact of
labeling theory and differential association theory on crime
causation has important implications for how society responds to
crime and how interventions are designed to prevent criminal
behavior. By recognizing the role of societal reactions and
interpersonal relationships in shaping individuals' involvement in
crime, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and social
service providers can develop strategies that focus on addressing
the underlying social processes that contribute to criminal
behavior. This may involve promoting positive social ties,
providing opportunities for individuals to disengage from
criminal networks, and challenging stigmatizing labels and
stereotypes that can perpetuate cycles of criminality. By taking
into account the insights provided by labeling theory and
differential association theory, society can work towards creating
more effective interventions that address the root causes of
criminal behavior and promote positive social outcomes for
individuals and communities.

5. Evaluate the relevance of developmental theories, such as life-

course theory and trajectory theory, in explaining patterns of
criminal behavior across the lifespan. How do these theories
account for variations in the onset, persistence, and desistance of
criminal activities, and what implications do they have for
interventions aimed at preventing or reducing crime?

Developmental theories, such as life-course theory and

trajectory theory, provide valuable frameworks for understanding
patterns of criminal behavior across the lifespan and can help
explain variations in the onset, persistence, and desistance of
criminal activities. These theories take into account how
individual characteristics, social influences, and life events shape
individuals' trajectories of criminal involvement over time.

Life-course theory emphasizes the importance of

understanding individual development and how experiences at
different stages of life can influence criminal behavior. According
to this theory, early childhood experiences, such as exposure to
violence, neglect, or trauma, can set individuals on a trajectory
towards criminal activities later in life. These early experiences
may contribute to the development of antisocial behaviors and
attitudes, leading to increased likelihood of engaging in
delinquent and criminal behavior as individuals progress through
adolescence and into adulthood. Life-course theory also
recognizes the impact of life events, such as transitions into
adulthood, marriage, parenthood, and employment, in shaping
individuals' pathways into or out of criminal activities.

Trajectory theory builds on the principles of life-course

theory by examining the different patterns or pathways of
criminal behavior that individuals may follow over time.
Trajectory theory recognizes that individuals may have varying
trajectories of criminal involvement, including early onset,
persistent, adolescent-limited, and desisting patterns. Early onset
trajectories involve individuals who begin engaging in criminal
activities at a young age and continue into adulthood. Persistent
trajectories involve individuals who consistently engage in
criminal behavior throughout their lives. Adolescent-limited
trajectories involve individuals who engage in criminal activities
only during adolescence. Desisting trajectories involve
individuals who engage in criminal activities earlier in life but
then desist as they transition into adulthood.

These developmental theories account for variations in the

onset, persistence, and desistance of criminal activities by
considering individual differences in biological, psychological,
and social factors. Factors such as genetic predispositions,
personality traits, family dynamics, peer influences, socio-
economic status, and life events can all play a role in shaping
individuals' trajectories of criminal behavior over time. For
example, individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment or
traumatic experiences may be more likely to follow a persistent
trajectory of criminal involvement, while individuals with strong
social support networks and access to opportunities for education
and employment may be more likely to desist from criminal
activities.

The implications of developmental theories for interventions

aimed at preventing or reducing crime are significant. By
understanding the complex interplay of individual development
and social influences on criminal behavior, policymakers, law
enforcement agencies, and social service providers can tailor
interventions to target specific risk factors and promote protective
factors at different stages of the life course. For example, early
childhood intervention programs that provide support and
resources to at-risk families can help prevent the onset of criminal
behavior in later years. Additionally, programs that offer
education, vocational training, and mental health services to
adolescents and young adults can help support desistance from
criminal activities and promote positive outcomes.

In conclusion, developmental theories, such as life-course

theory and trajectory theory, offer valuable insights into the
dynamics of criminal behavior across the lifespan. By examining
individual development and trajectories of criminal involvement
over time, these theories provide a comprehensive understanding
of the onset, persistence, and desistance of criminal activities. By
incorporating these theories into interventions and policies aimed
at preventing or reducing crime, society can work towards
addressing the complex factors that contribute to criminal
behavior and promoting positive outcomes for individuals at risk.