Self Report Studies

Question 1

What is a self report study

Answer 1

List of minor criminal offences given to large samples of people who are asked to tick the crimes they have committed

Question 2

How do self report studies increase validity

Answer 2

The sample is assured their responses will be kept anonymous and confidential

Question 3

2 positives of self report studies

Answer 3

1) which confirms the dark figure of crime

2) longitudinal - can examine the impact of variables such as family, class and poverty on criminality

Question 4

3 weaknesses of self report studies

Answer 4

1) people may conceal crimes due to fear of police informant

2) limited to a list which doesn’t cover all crimes

3) exaggerate crime to create an impression of being tough