NCJ Number
91325
Date Published
1983
Length
19 pages
Annotation
After tracing the development of the theoretical orientations of Belgian criminology, this paper explores the academic foundations of Belgian criminology, the development of criminological research, crime patterns, the network of associations among criminologists, and criminological research.
Abstract
In the 1920's, criminal anthropology influenced Belgian administration to such an extent that institutes originating then still have a function today. After about 60 years, criminology has become chiefly an academic enterprise involving theoretical studies. Initially, these studies were inspired by the clinical approach, as the prison was used as a laboratory. Two features of this evolution have been the late development of analytical and systematic research, especially research into the institutions for administration of criminal justice, and criminology not being professionalized within the administration of justice, except as an aspect of police training. Academic studies in criminology originated in the period 1920-40. A school of criminology and scientific police work was founded by the Ministry of Justice, and six schools of criminology have been established at the university level. The Centre d'Etude de la Delinquance Juvenile in Brussels, an interuniversity organization, researches youth crime with a view toward social action, serves as a clearinghouse on youth criminality, provides liaison between individuals and institutions with responsibilities for dealing with juvenile delinquency problems, and evaluates the efficiency of the present methods of prevention and treatment. Criminological research is conducted primarily by the academic and para-academic institutions. The orientation of the research is toward the interactional approach. Forty-four notes and 11 bibliographic entries are provided.