Crime - Introduction Flashcards
(31 cards)
What is the definition of crime?
A crime refers to any form of action that breaks a written, formal rule in society
Examples include bank robbery, burglary, shoplifting, and murder.
What is deviance?
Deviance refers to behaviour which at a specific time and in a specific place is seen as wrong
Deviant actions go against the shared norms of society.
How are crime and deviance socially constructed?
What is considered criminal or deviant changes over time and from place to place
For example, homosexuality was once criminal in the UK but is now accepted.
Is drinking alcohol deviant in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, it is considered deviant in Saudi Arabia but not in the UK
This highlights the contextual nature of deviance.
Which of the following actions is both criminal and deviant: spreading rumors or rape?
Rape
Spreading rumors is considered deviant but not criminal.
Fill in the blank: A _______ action may or may not be criminal, while a crime is always illegal.
deviant
What action is considered littering?
Deviant
Littering is typically viewed as wrong but may not be classified as a serious crime.
What is an example of a crime related to theft?
Burglary
This is a specific type of crime involving breaking into a building to commit theft.
True or False: Driving at 33 mph in a 30 mph speed area is considered criminal.
False
It is considered deviant but may not always lead to criminal charges.
Is encouraging others to commit a crime criminal, deviant or both?
This action is both criminal and deviant.
What is a potential consequence for committing a crime?
Punishment such as a fine, community service, or a prison sentence
The severity of the punishment depends on the act.
Fill in the blank: Taking stationery from a place of work is typically considered _______.
deviant
What does dumping toxic waste represent?
Both criminal and deviant
This action violates legal regulations and societal norms.
What does it mean for actions to be subject to change in the context of crime and deviance?
It means that societal norms and laws evolve over time, affecting what is considered criminal or deviant
This can vary between cultures and historical periods.
What is the societal perception of a young child swearing?
Deviant
Such behaviour is typically viewed as wrong according to social norms.
What is the impact of paying bank bosses huge bonuses in terms of societal norms?
It may be seen as deviant
This is because it can be viewed as morally wrong in the context of social inequality.
What is social control?
Formal and informal ways in which power is exerted over individuals or groups.
What are the two types of social control?
- Formal social control: written rules (e.g. laws) enforced by authorities
- Informal social control: agreed-upon rules that are not written down
What is formal social control?
Any written rules that are enforced by the police and authorities.
What is informal social control?
Rules that are agreed upon but not written down, such as community pressures.
How has the nature of social control changed over time?
From physical punishments to psychological regulation of behavior through surveillance.
What is an example of psychological punishment in social control?
Regulation of behavior through surveillance such as CCTV.
Why is the UK considered a CCTV nation?
It has the largest number of CCTV cameras of any country in Europe.
What do many people believe about CCTV as a form of social control?
It is effective because people know they could be watched at any time.
