Ch 1; What is Criminology Flashcards
Criminology
The study of crime & criminal behaviour, which are defined by reference to criminal law.
Deviance
Behaviour that differs from accepted social norms: may include acts that violate specific rules (crime), sexual behaviours, or non-criminal acts that challenge accepted values.
Demographics
Statistical data relating to characteristics of a population,.
Correlation
The finding that two measurable phenomena occur together, suggesting a relationship, but not necessarily one of direct cause & effect
Forensic Entomology
The study of insects to assist in legal investigations; insects found on a corpse can help identify facts about the time & place of the victims death.
Criminality
The state of being criminal; criminal acts or practices
Criminalization
To define an act as a crime & thereby subject that act to formal punishment
Criminal Justice System
The various institutions & processes through which an offender passes, such as the police, the courts, & correctional facilities & program, that help enforce societies law
Traits
Those attributes/features that distinguish or characterize an individual.
Empirical
That which is understood or verified through experiment, measurement, or direct observation; as opposed to theoretical.
Stigmatize
To strongly disapprove of a person or behaviour; to find disgraceful.
Interventions
Strategies intended to shape the physical environment to mitigate crime; also various programs targeting individual offenders, offering alternatives to criminal behaviour.
Geographic Profiling
A tool that permits police officers to focus on the likely residence of offenders in cases of serial crimes.
Net Widening
Imposing a form of control on individuals who might otherwise not be subject to such control.
Qualitative
The study of phenomena based not on measurement but an exploration of the reasons for human behaviour & the qualities of subjective experience.
