quizz final cri Flashcards
(4 cards)
. Describe the key elements of the conflict perspective. In other words, why does crime occur according to conflict theorists? Identify key assumptions. Be sure to explain the process completely.
The conflict perspective, rooted in the sociological theory, posits that crime is a manifestation of societal inequality and power struggles. According to conflict theorists, crime occurs primarily due to the inherent disparities in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and power within a society. The key assumptions underlying this perspective include the idea that society is characterized by competition for limited resources, and those in power use laws and institutions to maintain their dominance while controlling and suppressing dissent. Crime is viewed as a product of this social conflict, a response to structural inequalities that leave certain groups marginalized and disadvantaged. Conflict theorists argue that the legal system often serves the interests of the powerful, leading to the criminalization of behaviors that threaten the status quo, while neglecting or downplaying offenses committed by those in privileged positions. In essence, crime is seen as a result of systemic social injustices and power imbalances, rather than a reflection of individual pathology.
Explain peacemaking criminology. In your response, be sure to also discuss key principles and concerns of restorative justice.
Peacemaking criminology is a theoretical perspective that focuses on promoting peace, justice, and reconciliation as alternatives to traditional punitive approaches within the criminal justice system. This approach challenges the adversarial nature of the legal system and seeks to address the root causes of crime through nonviolent means. Key principles of peacemaking criminology include a commitment to social justice, a focus on preventing harm, and the promotion of healing and restoration for both victims and offenders. Peacemaking criminologists argue for a shift away from punitive measures toward restorative justice, which is a central component of this perspective.
restorive justice
Restorative justice is a philosophy and set of practices that emphasizes repairing the harm caused by crime rather than solely punishing offenders. It involves bringing together the victim, offender, and community in a facilitated dialogue to discuss the impact of the crime, explore ways to repair the harm, and find solutions that promote accountability and reintegration.
Explain the developmental perspective (in other words, what does it add to criminology literature/research?). In your response, be sure to discuss crime persistence, desistance, and turning points.
The developmental perspective in criminology contributes a nuanced understanding of the life course of criminal behavior, examining how criminal involvement evolves over time. Unlike static theories that view criminality as a fixed trait, the developmental perspective emphasizes that criminal behavior is dynamic and influenced by various factors across different life stages. This perspective introduces the concepts of crime persistence, desistance, and turning points. Crime persistence refers to the idea that some individuals engage in criminal activities consistently throughout their lives, while desistance highlights the capacity for individuals to cease criminal behavior as they age. Turning points are critical life events or experiences that can alter the trajectory of criminal involvement, steering individuals away from or toward criminal behavior. The developmental perspective, therefore, adds depth to criminological research by acknowledging the fluid nature of criminal pathways and recognizing the potential for positive change through interventions and life events. This dynamic approach allows criminologists to explore the interplay of individual, social, and environmental factors in shaping the course of criminal behavior across the lifespan.
