Question 1

What is the difference between crime and deviance?

Accepted Answer

Crime refers to any act that breaks the formal criminal law of a society, such as theft or murder. Deviance, on the other hand, is any behaviour that violates social norms but may not be illegal, like wearing unusual clothing. Not all deviance is criminal, and not all crime is deviant (e.g., speeding may be seen as normal by some). Criminology focuses primarily on crime, but understanding deviance helps explain why certain acts are criminalised.

Question 2

Why do official crime statistics not show the full picture of crime?

Accepted Answer

Official crime statistics only include crimes that are reported to the police and then recorded by them. Many crimes go unreported because victims may fear reprisal, feel ashamed, or believe the police cannot help. Additionally, police recording practices can vary, and some crimes (like fraud or cybercrime) are often undercounted. Victim surveys, such as the Crime Survey for England and Wales, provide a more accurate estimate by asking people about their experiences of crime, regardless of whether they reported it.

Question 3

What is the main idea of classical criminology?

Accepted Answer

Classical criminology, developed by Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham in the 18th century, argues that individuals have free will and make rational choices to commit crime after weighing the potential benefits against the risks of punishment. To deter crime, punishments should be swift, certain, and proportionate to the offence. This theory led to reforms in the justice system, such as the abolition of torture and the establishment of clear laws. However, it has been criticised for ignoring individual differences and social inequalities that may influence decision-making.

Question 4

How does strain theory explain crime?

Accepted Answer

Strain theory, proposed by Robert Merton, suggests that crime occurs when there is a gap between the cultural goals of a society (e.g., financial success) and the legitimate means available to achieve them (e.g., education, employment). When individuals cannot achieve these goals through accepted channels, they may experience 'strain' and adapt in various ways. For example, 'innovation' involves using illegal means (like theft) to achieve wealth, while 'retreatism' involves rejecting both goals and means (e.g., drug addiction). This theory helps explain why crime rates are higher in disadvantaged communities.

Question 5

What is the positivist approach to criminology?

Accepted Answer

Positivist criminology, associated with Cesare Lombroso and others, argues that criminal behaviour is determined by factors beyond an individual's control, such as biological, psychological, or social influences. Lombroso believed that criminals could be identified by physical features (e.g., a sloping forehead), but this has been discredited. Modern positivism focuses on factors like genetics, brain chemistry, upbringing, and poverty. Unlike classical theory, positivism emphasises rehabilitation and treatment rather than punishment. Critics argue it can be deterministic and may lead to labelling individuals as 'born criminals'.

Question 6

How can I apply criminological theories to real-life case studies?

Accepted Answer

To apply theories, first identify the key elements of the case: the type of crime, the offender's background, and the social context. For example, if a person steals because they are unemployed and in debt, you could use strain theory to explain the pressure to achieve financial goals. If the offender has a history of impulsivity, you might consider psychological positivism. Always evaluate the theory's strengths and limitations in explaining the case. For instance, classical theory might not fully account for why someone with mental health issues commits a crime. Use specific evidence from the case to support your analysis.

Ascentis Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principles of Criminology

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