Causes of crime ✓ Solved

Crime is generally referred to as the commissioning of an act that violates the law, causing injuries to society. Contemporary scholars from all over the world have debated this subject for ages with the aim of trying to unearth the causes of crime, but many have concluded that it is motivated by various factors. The factors are numerous, and there is no single study that accurately proves the current theories. Nonetheless, these theories have been widely accepted as the most probable sources of criminology. This study will investigate some of these theories that form the basis of criminology together with some of the most profound programs and policies that would reduce rising crime rates around the world.

These theories can be classified into three major categories: theories that attribute the act of crime to congenital or biological defects of the offender, theories that may originate from mental or psychological disorders, and theories that arise from social or environmental factors. This study will begin by looking into the biological theories of crime.

There are two or more theories that currently exist in the biosocial domain today, with one or two placing more emphasis on genetic factors transmitted from parents to children (Perez, 2011). Other studies assert that criminal behavior may be triggered by defects in neurological setups that inhibit self-control, thereby increasing the probability of indulging in criminal behavior.

Abnormalities in neurobiology have been linked to criminal activity. Research has established a close correlation between criminal activities and impairments in the brain, particularly the frontal lobe. Individuals exhibiting aggressive behavior may have developed these behaviors as a result of such an impairment. Furthermore, imbalances in chemicals in the brain — particularly neurotransmitters — can influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Low levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, are associated with increased aggression and the propensity for violence (Ramdhan, 2011).

Psychological theories suggest that individual behaviors and actions are shaped by social backgrounds. Jean Piaget's research outlines four stages of moral development in children, indicating that children below the age of two understand the world through their senses, while those aged two to seven think egocentrically (Vogel, 2010). As children mature, they learn to respect rules set by authority figures and gradually understand and internalize societal laws. This moral development is crucial; individuals who struggle to conform to societal expectations may be more prone to criminal behavior.

Social learning theory posits that individuals learn behaviors through social interactions. How a person is treated, including rewards for conforming to rules or sanctions for violating them, significantly shapes their behavioral responses. Youths exhibiting delinquent behaviors often come from environments lacking consistent discipline, which can lead to further criminal involvement (Benson, 2012).

Combined with personality theories, which suggest that certain traits and predispositions contribute to criminality, the environmental and social theories paint a broad picture of the causes of crime. Freud posited that individuals develop conflicts between their self-interests and moral attitudes, with personality disorders potentially leading to an inclination towards criminal behavior (Joyce, 2012).

Social causes of crime are underscored by theorists such as Gabriel Tarde, who argued that criminal activities are socially inspired. Emile Durkheim contributed to this discussion by proposing that crime emerges from social instability, leading to feelings of alienation.

Poverty is identified as a significant contributor to crime. The desperation associated with lack of resources can drive individuals to commit crimes like theft and drug-related offenses. Research has shown a correlation between poverty and criminal behavior, though exceptions exist (Joyce, 2012). Addressing crime necessitates multifaceted programs that considers biological, psychological, and socio-environmental factors, aiming to diminish the triggers of criminality.

Paper For Above Instructions

The causes of crime are complex and multifaceted, influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors. This analysis highlights prevalent theories, providing an overview of their implications and relevance to modern criminology. Understanding the underlying causes can aid in developing effective mitigation strategies and reducing crime rates globally.

References

• Benson, M. (2012). Crime and the Life Course. Journal of Child Psychology, 5, 11-14.
• Joyce, P. (2012). Criminal Justice: An Introduction. Journal of Social History, 8, 13-16.
• Perez, J. (2011). Social Class and Criminal Behavior through a Biosocial Lens. British Journal of Criminology, 4.
• Ramdhan, S. (2011). The impact of gender, racial/ethnic background, social class, family and peer influence on juvenile delinquency. Journal of Genetic Counseling, 19, 9-21.
• Vogel, B. (2010). A primer on crime and delinquency theory. Journal of Global Citizenship & Equity Education, 12.
• Durkheim, E. (1897). Suicide: A Study in Sociology. New York: Free Press.
• Tarde, G. (1901). The Laws of Imitation. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
• Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
• Patterson, G. R. (1982). Coercive Family Process. Eugene, OR: Castalia Publishing Company.
• Freud, S. (1923). The Ego and the Id. London: Hogarth Press.