Theory of Crime

Characteristics or Beliefs

of Theory

Solutions to Crime

Accept/Reject Theory and

Reasons for Decision

Classical Theory

• Crime is caused by the individual free will.
• Human beings are rational, and make decisions freely and with understanding of consequences.
• Crime is an immoral form of behaviour.
• Immoral behaviour will weaken the society.

• Punishment is a necessary evil sometimes needed to deter criminals and to serve as an example for those who would violate the law.
• Crime prevention is possible through swift and certain punishment that counters any possible gains from criminal behaviour.
• More prisons and stiffer criminal laws with greater penalties for offenders are the best solutions to crime.

Biological Theory

• The basic determinants of human behaviour are, to a considerable degree, determined by genetics.
• These basic determinants of human behaviour may be passed from one generation to the next; criminal behaviour is genetically inherited.
• Human DNA, environmental contaminants, nutrition, hormones, physical trauma (especially to the brain) and body chemistry all combine to contribute to criminal behaviour.

• The Eugenics movement appeared, including state - mandated sterilization of "feeble minded persons" in British Columbia and Alberta in the 1950s.
• Prevention of additional offspring would end the genetically criminal cycle.
• Research to find the gene responsible for crime will allow medical science to turn off the gene in question once located.

Psychobiological Theory (continued)

• Chromosomal anomalies, reactions to foods, vitamin deficiencies, or environmental allergies, combined with a particular genetic makeup, will predispose some individuals to criminal behaviour.

• Since no such gene has been discovered, medicinal approaches are employed using tranquilizers, antipsychotic drugs, and other mood-altering drugs to control behaviour.

Sociological Theory

• The social environment is the cause of criminal behaviour, with weak or broken bonds to family, school, and religion being the catalyst to criminal behaviour.
• People engage in criminal behaviour because they do not see the benefits of adhering to conventional social values, and believe crime is a way to improve personal social conditions.

• Positive alternatives divert peoples’ actions away from criminal activity and create a sense of belonging, competence, and empowerment.
• Social programmes that change the cultural and social conditions thought to lead people into crime are the best solution.

Interactionist Theory

• Association with other criminals is the factor most contributing to criminal behaviour among individuals.
• Failure of self-direction, and inadequate social roles are the root causes of criminal behaviour.

• Offenders have the responsibility and ability to change their own behaviours.
• Opportunities for positive interaction with society will enable the criminal, or would be criminal, to choose productive and lawful behaviours to meet needs.