Subcultural Theories of Crime

by | Mar 12, 2024 | criminal justice

Subcultural theories of crime (Wolf gang and ferracuti 1967) & Anderson (1999) & Violent crime (murder, rape, & human trafficking)

Prompt:

Choose a theory that you believe is best suited to reduce the crime rate within the United States. You must be able to describe the basis of the theory in detail. In doing so, you must describe how your specific theory can be used to help reduce crime rates for at least two (2) specific types of crime (i.e. Using rational choice theory to reduce vandalism and burglary) , you may do more if you would like to do so. The types of crime can be found in your course textbook in Chapters 10 through 15. Finally, discuss forms of legislation or measures that can be taken in relation to your chosen theory that would be key in reducing the types of crime you have chosen.
Questions that must be answered:

What is your chosen theory?
What minimum two (2) types of crime could be reduced the most with your chosen theory?
How has your chosen theory been used to reduce overall crime in the past?
How can your theory be specifically used to reduce crime with your first crime type?
How can your theory be specifically used to reduce crime with your second crime type?
(Optional) How can your theory be specifically used to reduce crime with your other chosen crime types?
What forms of legislation or crime reduction measures can be used to reduce your chosen crime types? Does your chosen theory specifically indicate any measures that can be taken?

 

 

 

Sample Answer

Sample Answer

 

Chosen Theory: Subcultural Theories of Crime

Introduction

Subcultural theories of crime, as proposed by Wolfgang and Ferracuti in 1967, suggest that criminal behavior is a result of individuals belonging to deviant subcultures with values that differ from those of mainstream society. This theory focuses on how individuals within these subcultures learn and adopt criminal behavior as a way to achieve status and respect within their social groups.

Types of Crime

1. Violent Crime

Subcultural theories can be particularly effective in reducing violent crimes such as murder, rape, and human trafficking. These crimes are often associated with subcultures that glorify violence, dominance, and exploitation.

2. Property Crime

Property crimes like burglary and vandalism can also be curbed through subcultural theories. Individuals within subcultures that promote materialism and instant gratification may resort to property crimes as a means to acquire goods or assert power.

Past Successes

In the past, subcultural theories have been used to reduce overall crime rates by targeting specific subcultures through community outreach programs, educational initiatives, and social support systems. By addressing the root causes of criminal behavior within these subcultures, interventions have shown promising results in deterring individuals from engaging in illegal activities.

Crime Reduction Strategies

1. Violent Crime

To reduce violent crime, implementing mentorship programs that provide positive role models for at-risk individuals can help steer them away from violent subcultures. Offering alternative pathways to success through education and employment opportunities can also diminish the allure of criminal behavior.

2. Property Crime

For property crimes, focusing on economic empowerment programs within vulnerable communities can address the underlying motivations for these offenses. Promoting financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable employment options can offer individuals a legitimate means to achieve their material desires without resorting to criminal acts.

Other Crime Types

Subcultural theories can also be applied to address other crime types such as drug-related offenses or gang activities. By understanding the subcultural dynamics that influence these behaviors, tailored interventions can be designed to disrupt criminal networks and provide individuals with alternatives to illegal activities.

Legislative Measures

Legislation plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of crime reduction strategies based on subcultural theories. Policies that allocate funding for community programs, enhance access to education and job training, and promote social inclusion can create a supportive environment for individuals to break away from criminal subcultures.

In conclusion, subcultural theories of crime offer a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing criminal behavior within specific social groups. By tailoring interventions to target the root causes of crime associated with these subcultures, significant reductions in violent and property crimes can be achieved through a combination of community engagement, education, and legislative support.

 

 

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