Crime Correlates Flashcards
What is Correlation?
A pattern of covariation between variables, but it does not imply causation.
What is the correlation between age, sex, and crime?
Young adults are more likely to be accused of crimes, while older individuals are less likely.
Males are overrepresented among offenders, especially in crimes like sexual assault, assault, weapons, and drugs.
What is the Role Convergence Hypothesis?
It suggests that as women’s work roles become more similar to men’s, their involvement in crimes will also increase.
What correlations exist with race and crime?
Indigenous, Aboriginal, and Black people are overrepresented in crime statistics.
This can be explained by the Differential Offending Hypothesis or the idea of systemic inequalities in the administration of justice.
What are some structural theories explaining correlations with race and crime?
The colonial model, historic trauma transmission model, and critical race theory all highlight the impact of colonization, acculturation, and systemic injustices.
What is the correlation between crime and socio-economic status (SES)?
People with higher education levels are less involved in crime but may commit more sophisticated crimes like white-collar crimes.
Men from low SES backgrounds may be more prone to violence.
How does employment affect crime?
Employment reduces recidivism.
Are there regional differences in crime?
Yes, with different types and amounts of crime observed in different neighborhoods.
Poorer neighborhoods tend to have higher incidences of crime and violence.
What is the relationship between neighborhood characteristics and crime?
Neighborhoods with greater “collective efficacy” (the ability to work together) tend to have lower crime rates.
What caution should be taken when interpreting correlations?
Correlation does not imply causation, and conclusions should be drawn carefully.
What factors can contribute to correlations between age, sex, and crime?
Physiological limitations, social bonds, attachments, and societal expectations may play roles.
What are some potential explanations for correlations between race and crime?
Systemic inequalities, differential treatment in the justice system, and historic traumas may contribute.
