Realist Theories of Crime

Question 1

Explain how realist approaches to crime are different from others

Answer 1

• dont just look at the cause but also solutions

Question 2

Explain all three right realist approaches to crime

Answer 2

Biology= Wilson + Hernstein, predisposed, aggressive/ extrovert traits, reinforced with lack of role models

Socialisation= Murray, not adequately socialised, dependent on welfare, dont take responsibility

Rational choice= Clarke, have free will. If the benefit outweighs the cost, people more likely to offend

Question 3

Explain how right realists believe crime should be tackled

Answer 3

• Make criminal behaviour less attractive
• target hardening (more difficult for crimes to be committed)
• zero tolerance (delt with immediately)

Question 4

Evaluate right realism

Answer 4

• ignores other causes
• doesn’t explain violence
• contradicts rational choice and biology

Question 5

Explain all three left realist approaches to crime

Answer 5

Relative deprivation= Lea + Young, living standards have risen, people feel more deprived/ resent

Marginalisation= not a part of society, lack goals, feel frustrated, leading to crime

Subcultures= inability to achieve goals through legitimate means, their own ways of achieving goals

Question 6

Explain how left realists believe crime should be tackled

Answer 6

Must tackle social problems first (inequalities) policies create better relationships between public & police

Question 7

Evaluate left realism

Answer 7

• doesn’t explain motives for crime
• can’t explain all crime, not all deprived commit