Criminology Unit 2 Flashcards
(58 cards)
What is the definition of criminality?
Criminality refers to the behavior of individuals who commit crimes and the study of the causes and consequences of such behavior.
What are the two main types of crime?
The two main types of crime are felonies and misdemeanors.
True or False: All crimes are classified as either violent or property crimes.
False
Fill in the blank: The __________ theory suggests that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others.
social learning
What is the strain theory in criminology?
Strain theory posits that society sets culturally approved goals and means to achieve them, and when individuals cannot achieve these goals, they may resort to crime.
What does the term ‘white-collar crime’ refer to?
White-collar crime refers to non-violent crime committed for financial gain within a business or professional context.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a type of crime? A) Theft B) Homicide C) Habitual behavior D) Fraud
C) Habitual behavior
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felonies are more serious crimes that typically carry harsher penalties, while misdemeanors are less severe offenses with lighter penalties.
True or False: Media coverage can influence public perception of crime rates.
True
What role does the media play in shaping the public’s fear of crime?
The media often sensationalizes crime stories, which can lead to increased fear and perception of danger among the public.
Fill in the blank: The __________ hypothesis suggests that prolonged exposure to media violence can desensitize individuals to real-life violence.
desensitization
What is labeling theory in criminology?
Labeling theory suggests that individuals become criminals when society labels them as such, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is considered a violent crime? A) Burglary B) Assault C) Embezzlement D) Vandalism
B) Assault
What is the primary focus of biological theories of crime?
Biological theories focus on genetic and physiological factors that may predispose individuals to criminal behavior.
True or False: The media has no effect on the actual crime rate.
True
What is the concept of ‘moral panic’ in relation to crime?
Moral panic refers to a widespread fear, often irrational, that some evil threatens the well-being of society, often fueled by media coverage.
Fill in the blank: __________ crimes are offenses committed by individuals in their professional life, often involving deceit.
White-collar
What are the four categories of crime according to the FBI?
The four categories are violent crime, property crime, white-collar crime, and public order crime.
Multiple Choice: Which type of crime includes drug offenses? A) Violent crime B) Property crime C) Public order crime D) Cyber crime
C) Public order crime
What is the primary argument of the routine activities theory?
The routine activities theory posits that crime occurs when a motivated offender, a suitable target, and a lack of capable guardians converge in time and space.
True or False: All types of crime are affected equally by media representation.
False
What is the difference between organized crime and white-collar crime?
Organized crime involves illegal activities conducted by structured groups, while white-collar crime is committed by individuals in their professional roles.
Fill in the blank: __________ crime involves the use of computers and the internet to commit illegal activities.
Cyber
What is the focus of conflict theory in relation to crime?
Conflict theory focuses on the social and economic inequalities that lead to crime, suggesting that laws are created to benefit the powerful.