Criminological Theories:
Criminal theory is the body of knowledge regarding the etiology of crime and criminal behavior. Criminological theories attempt to explain why crimes are committed and how best to control them. There are several different types of criminological theories, each with its own unique perspective on the root causes of crime. Some of the most popular criminological theories include biological, psychological, sociological, and economic theories.
Biological Theories:
Biological theories of crime posit that there are certain physical or mental characteristics that predispose an individual to criminal behavior. These theorists believe that criminals are born, not made. One early proponent of this theory was Italian physician Cesare Lombroso, who posited that criminals could be identified by physical abnormalities such as asymmetrical faces, sloping foreheads, and large jaws (Lombroso, 2011). While Lombroso’s theory has been largely discredited, other researchers have found evidence for a link between certain genetic markers and criminal behavior (Raine, 2013). Biological theories typically focus on individual-level factors in explaining crime.
Psychological Theories:
Psychological theories of crime suggest that an individual’s personality or mental state plays a role in their likelihood to commit criminal acts. Psychodynamic theory posits that individuals with unresolved childhood trauma or conflict are more likely to engage in criminal behavior as adults (Freud, 2015). Social learning theory suggests that people learn criminal behaviors through observation and imitation (Bandura & Walters, 1963). Psychological theories typically focus on individual-level factors in explaining crime.
Sociological Theories:
Sociological theories of crime suggest that larger social forces play a role in shaping an individual’s likelihood to commit criminal acts. Social disorganization theory posits that neighborhoods with high rates of poverty and residential turnover are more likely to experience high rates of crime (Shaw & McKay, 1942). Differential association theory suggests people learn criminal behaviors through their interactions with others in their peer group (Sutherland & Cressey , 1960). Sociological theories typically focus on community-level factors in explainingcrime.
Economic Theories: Economic theorists believe financial gain is the primary motivation behind most crimes. Rational choice theory posits that people weigh the costs and benefits before deciding whether or not to commit a crime (Becker , 1968). This includes both the potential punishment if caught as well as the potential financial reward from successfully committing the act . Predatory pricing theory suggests businesses may illegally price goods below market value in order to drive competitors out of business , thereby creating a monopoly (Klepper , 1996 ). Economic crimes also include tax evasion , embezzlement , insider trading , etc . Like sociological theories , economic explanations for criminal behavior tend to focus on structural – level rather than individual – level factors .
While there is no single “right” answer when it comes to explaining criminality , each of these theoretical perspectives offers valuable insights into understanding why people engage in illegal activities . By better understanding the motivations behind Crime we can develop more effective strategies for preventing it from occurring .