Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of rational choice theory. Cite some of the studies listed in the text
What will be an ideal response?
The answer should include the following points:
- strengths—rational choice theory—the delinquent or the criminal chooses to violate the law and has free will
- Paternoster—rational choice does not require complete information for behavior to occur
- Aniwar and Loughran—individuals’ update risk perceptions over time according to the feedback received during offending experiences
- Fagan and Piquero—crime rates are lower when punishment risks and costs increase
- weakness—Robert Agnew’s determinism theory—freedom of choice varies from one individual to another; dependency on one’s biological, psychological, or social nature
- assumes free will fails for individuals controlled by their emotions—compulsive arsonists, kleptomaniacs, or sex offenders
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The role of genetics in explaining criminal and delinquent behavior falls under:
a. the classical school of criminology. b. sociobiology. c. atavism. d. social learning theory.
Stated goals are official statements of what an organization says and what it wants various publics to believe are its objectives. Which statement below best identifies the relationship between stated goals and real goals?
a. Generally speaking, stated goals that top management express are almost always real. b. If you want to know what a police department's real, unstated goals are, closely observe what members of the organization actually do. c. There is rarely conflict in stated and real goals because police organizations are adept to respond to a vast array of constituencies. d. Real goals usually are also stated, but rarely provide more guidance.
Shaw and McKay explained crime and delinquency within the context of ______.
A. the changing urban environment and ecological development of the city B. subcultures with blocked means of achieving majority status C. redistribution of goals and means D. biological changes resulting from transient neighborhoods
Workplace violence is only caused by loss of a job
a. True b. False Indicate whether the statement is true or false