CRIME AND DEVIANCE - An Introduction Flashcards
What is the definition of Crime?
Breaking a law that is created within a society - Such as ‘Do not kill’.
A law is something which a society had set out as being important!
What does Newburn (2007) say about Crime?
They say that crime is a label given to certain behaviours that are prohibited / not allowed by the state.
What is the definition of Deviance?
Breaking and disobeying social norms and values / an expectation within society.
Remember that sometimes this will also be a crime and sometimes this is just be breaking an expectation within society
What do Downes and Rock (2007) say about Deviance?
They say that deviance is complicated and it depends on the context.
What used to be a crime in the UK but now is seen as an act of deviance by some within society?
Homosexuality!
It used to be a crime in the UK; now some people see it as being a deviant. However, in other areas of the world, being a homosexual is still a crime and may even be punishable by death.
How many types of crime exist?
4
What are the 4 different types of crime?
- Crimes against a Person
- Crimes against Property
- Crimes against the State
- Religious crimes
Give an example of ‘Crimes against a Person’. HINT: Name as many as you can; there are 3 here!
A crime where there is one intended victim!
- Mugging someone
- Prostitution
- Rape
Give an example of ‘Crimes against Property’. HINT: Name as many as you can; there are 2 here!
A crime where there is NOT one intended victim!
- Fraud from your employer / business
- Vandalism
Give an example of ‘Crimes against the State’. HINT: Name as many as you can; there are 5 here!
- Terrorism
- Trespassing on Ministry of Defence Land
- Stealing data from the council
- Tax evasion
- Espionage / spying
Give an example of ‘Religious Crimes’. HINT: Name as many as you can; there is 1 here!
These are sins!
- Blasphemy (swearing / using God’s name in vain)
Is wearing slippers to work a CRIME or just DEVIANT BEHAVIOUR?
DEVIANT BEHAVIOUR!
Is using racist language in a shop a CRIME or just DEVIANT BEHAVIOUR?
CRIME!
What are the 3 main categories of crime?
Crimes against:
- A PERSON
- PROPERTY
- THE STATE
What is the Effect of Crime on Society? HINT: Name as many reasons as you can; there are 3 positives and 4 negatives here!
+ More funding for security forces, due to the high crime rate
+ Creates unity between victims of crime; a sense of community and value consensus –> For example: The sense of community after 9/11 and other state crimes
+ The Criminal Justice System creates jobs and employment (such as police and lawyers)
- Less social cohesion
- Disruption
- Creation of fear
- People blame the authorities - Leads to division / polarisation; adds political pressure
