Causes of Crime - Factors

Question 1

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) - sociological

Answer 1

Definition: Stressful events in childhood that increase the likelihood of criminal behaviour.
UK: - ACE survey found people with 4+ ACEs are more likely to be in prison.
- UK Parliament report found 41% of prisoners witnessed violence at home as children (form of ACE).
IC: - In USA 90% of incarcerated males reported at least one ACE; 50% reported 4+.
- Theory: Hirschi’s Social Bond Theory

Question 2

Poverty - sociological

Answer 2

Evidence:
UK: - 2022 52% more crimes recorded in income-deprived areas; violent crime 2.1x higher in poorest areas.
- As of 2025 Glasgow had a high crime rate (812/10,000) linked to high child poverty (33%), compared to Edinburgh (679/10,000) with lower child poverty (20%).
IC: - Ecuador, gangs exploit poverty, extorting businesses, disrupting education, and causing migration.
Theory: Strain Theory (Robert Merton)

Question 3

Gender - physiological

Answer 3

Evidence:
- 73% of violent crimes (2019-2020) committed by men.
- 98% of sexual offenders are male.
Counterpoint: Societal pressures (e.g., traditional roles) may push men into crime due to poverty and expectations.

Question 4

Drugs & Alcohol - psychological

Answer 4

Evidence:
- 44% of violent crime is alcohol-related
- Of the 65 persons accused in homicide cases in 2020-21, 40 (62%) were reported to have been under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both at the time
Counterpoint: People living in the most deprived areas were more likely to perceive drug dealing and drug abuse as very or fairly common in their area

Question 5

Conclusion

Answer 5

• Sociological Factors: Best explain criminality due to structural inequalities and societal influences.
• Physiological Factors: Relevant but secondary, requiring environmental triggers to have a significant impact.
• Overall: Society creates its own criminals by fostering environments (poverty, inequality, weak social bonds) that encourage crime.