NCJ Number
184715
Date Published
2000
Length
325 pages
Annotation
This third edition reviews and appraises the leading theories of crime and criminal justice, evaluating their adequacy as explanations of criminal and deviant behavior or of the criminal law and justice system.
Abstract
The book includes all the major theories that have been the subject of 9 out of 10 theory-testing articles in the leading criminological journal over the latter part of the 20th century. An introduction to criminological theory defines theory, reviews types of criminological theories, and outlines the criteria for evaluating theory. Subsequent chapters address deterrence and rational-choice theories; biological and psychological theories; social learning theory; social bonding and control theories; labeling theory; social disorganization, anomie, and strain theories; conflict theory; Marxist and critical theories; and feminist theories. The final chapter discusses the integration of criminological theories. Each chapter has been updated and substantially revised in the context of recent research and important changes in the theories. The central concepts, assertions, and hypotheses of each theory are explained, followed by an evaluation of the theory in accordance with the following criteria: logical consistency, scope, parsimony, applicability to policy, testability, and empirical validity. Attention is given to the usefulness of each theory for guiding actions to control and prevent crime and delinquency. Chapter notes, 836 references, and subject and author indexes