AC1.1 Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is the difference between criminal behaviour and deviance?
Criminal behaviour breaches rules set as criminal by society, while deviance consists of acts against social norms.
Define criminal behaviour.
An intentional violation of the criminal law that can be punished by imprisonment, a fine, or community service.
What are the two essential elements required for an act to be considered a crime?
- Actus reus (guilty act)
- Mens rea (guilty mind)
What does ‘actus reus’ refer to?
The guilty act involved in a criminal offence.
What does ‘mens rea’ refer to?
The guilty mind or intention behind committing a crime.
True or False: All harmful acts are considered criminal.
False
What is the social definition of crime?
Acts that are illegal but may be seen as acceptable by society.
What does deviance mean?
Differing from the norms of society.
List the two factors that influence deviant behaviour.
- The situation
- The culture
Fill in the blank: Deviance can be defined as behaviour which goes against the _______ of a specific group or society.
[social norms]
What are social norms?
The accepted way of behaving in different societies and cultures.
What are moral codes?
Good ways of behaving, where breaking them is generally considered serious in society.
Give an example of a moral code.
Not laughing at a funeral.
What are values in a societal context?
The principles shared by most in society, serving as general guidelines.
Provide an example of a value.
- Respect for the elderly
- Politeness / manners
- Patience
How may the colour of mourning differ between cultures?
In the UK, dark colours are worn, while in China, white is worn for mourning.
What implications can arise from committing a criminal and/or deviant act?
Consequences can include formal and informal sanctions.
What is the social definition of crime?
Crime is any act so identified by groups in society.
This definition focuses on societal labeling and the process of criminalization rather than individual behavior.
How does the legal definition of crime differ from the social definition?
Crime is defined as an act that is against written law and can result in formal punishments set by the judiciary.
This definition emphasizes legal frameworks rather than societal consensus.
What are the two essential elements of a crime in law?
- Actus reus: the physical ‘doing’ part of the crime
- Mens rea: the intention to commit the crime
Actus reus refers to the actual act, while mens rea refers to the mental state during the act.
What is actus reus?
The physical ‘doing’ part of the crime, also known as committing a guilty act.
It is one of the two essential elements required to establish a crime.
What is mens rea?
The intention to commit the crime, also referred to as having a guilty mind.
Mens rea is crucial for determining the culpability of the individual.
True or False: A person can be found guilty even if both actus reus and mens rea are present.
False.
In certain defenses like self-defense, infancy, or insanity, a person may not be found guilty despite both elements being present.
What can influence the definition of crime over time?
Societal changes and differing societal views can influence the definition of crime.
This indicates that crime is not a static concept and can evolve.
