Deterrence, rational choice, routine activities theories

Question 1

what is the lifestyle/exposure theory

Answer 1

assumes that some people with are more prone to experience criminal victimization because of their lifestyles exposure to risky situations

Question 2

How does lifestyle/exposure theory think about the risks of becoming a victim of crime

Answer 2

The probability of victimization increases as your life style increases the amount of time spent in public places, and time spent amount strangers.

Question 3

What is deterrence theory

Answer 3

Certain factors influence a persons decision to commit a crime , and the legal system can be used to affect that decision

Question 4

What factors make a punishment more effective

Answer 4

hot spot policing
- focusing police resources on high crime areas can reduce crime by increasing certainty of arrest
Individualized deterrence
- directly informing the person about the consequences for future purposes

Question 5

Have deterrence theory principle lined up with criminal justice reforms

Answer 5

the instance of the “three strikes” that caused serious prison overcrowding and has cost billions of dollars.
- some people are in for 25 years for shoplifting which doesn’t make sense

Question 6

what has been the influence of mandatory minimums

Answer 6

• disproportionate sentencing
  -effect on crime rate. some argue there is a decrease some argue there is no decrease

Question 7

What is Rational Choice Theories

Answer 7

People break the law because they believe crime will provide a reward

assumes that crime involves:
1. a person ready to commit
2. access to opportunities to offend

Question 8

What is the Routine Activities approach

Answer 8

Assumes that 3 factors must be present for crime to occur
1. motivated offender
2. suitable target
3. lack of suitable guardianship of target
- changes in any of the factors will increase or decrease probability of crime