Sociological theories influence on policy development Flashcards
What is the basis of Merton’s strain theory?
Making society more equal would reduce crime.
What solutions does Merton propose to make society more equal?
-Policies to tackle poverty
-Equal opportunities in school
-Increased education in prisons
Are Merton’s ideas effective?
Studies show positive effects, in that countries with lower inequality do have lower crime rates.
What is the basis of labelling theory?
Crime is a result of the self fulfilling prophecy.
How does labelling theory suggest we could reduce crime?
Decriminalisation, diversion and reintergrative shaming
How would decriminalisation prevent crime?
Would avoid labelling minor offenders as criminal.
How would diversion reduce crime?
Would prevent young offenders from entering the criminal justice system and being labelled.
How would reintergrative shaming prevent crime?
Would label the act but not the individual
Are labelling theory policy developments effective at reducing crime?
Can prevent minor offences and the re-offending of young people. Avoids labelling and hence deviant careers.
What two features are there of surveillance policies?
Closed-circuit Television (CCTV) and panopticon (all-seeing)
How does CCTV manage crime?
People self-regulate their behaviour as they are not aware as to whether they are being watched or not.
Is CCTV effective?
Not really as it displaces crime rather than deterring it. It is more effective as reassurance for the public that if they become a victim of crime there is concrete proof.
Who theorised panopticon?
Faucoult
Is panopticon effective?
Improved behaviour whilst in prison, slower return to crime upon release but not noticeable long-term effects
What are the issues with surveillance?
Can be seen as creepy, and can be misused to stalk or harass an individual or group.
