Criminal Behavior

Home Institution: University of Louisville, USA

Course Overview
The course is an introduction to the major theoretical perspectives that frame the study of criminal and delinquent behavior. It examines the biological, psychological and sociological factors related to criminal behavior, the role of theory and research in preventing and controlling crime, and the policy implications of theory-based crime research. The relationship between social institutions and antisocial behavior will be discussed in this class as well.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students are expected to have a good understanding of the major theories of crime and delinquency and of their policy implications
Students will acquire a set of skills that will enable them to identify, analyze, and explain different aspects of criminal behavior
Students will learn to think comprehensively about the solution of social problems, crime and delinquency included
The course should also increase the students’ ability to critically assess published materials focusing on crime and delinquency
The course will provide knowledge that students should be able to use in other courses in the curriculum and in their personal life

Course Content

Criminal behavior and the development of theoretical criminology
Assessing the incidence of crime
Classical & neoclassical criminology
Biosocial theories of crime
Psychological theories of crime
The social ecology of crime. Social disorganization theory and routine activities theory
Learning and cultural transmission theories of crime
Strain theories of crime
Control theories of crime. Crime over the life course and factors influencing desistance
Theories of social conflict and labeling theory

Instructional Method
Although class meetings will generally follow a lecture format, students are expected to attend class regularly, be active participants, and contribute consistently to class discussions. Questions, comments, and suggestions related to the topics covered in class are strongly encouraged. It is essential for the successful outcome of this course that readings and homework assignments be completed in a timely manner.

Required Course Materials*

Akers, R., Krohn, M. D., Lonn Lanza-Kaduce, L. & Radosevich, M. (1979) Social learning and deviant behavior: A specific test of a general theory. American Sociological Review, 44(4), pp. 636-655.

Andreescu, V., (2017). Family, school, and peer influences on alcohol abstinence and use among American Indian and white female adolescents. Deviant Behavior. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0163925.2017.1411032 (online first)

Andreescu, V., Shutt, J. E. & Vito, G. F. (2011). The Violent South: Culture of Honor, Social Disorganization, and Murder in Appalachia. Criminal Justice Review, 36(1), 76-103.

Chiricos, T., Barrick, K., Bales, W., and Bontrager, S. (2007). The labeling of convicted felons and its consequences for recidivism, Criminology, 45(3), 547-581.

Moffitt, T. E., Lynam, D. R. & Silva, P. A. (1994) Neuropsychological tests predicting persistent male delinquency, Criminology, 32(2), 277-300.

Sampson, R. J. & Laub, J.H. (1990) Crime and deviance over the life course: The salience of adult social bonds. American Sociological Review, 55(5), 609-627.

*The instructor will provide pdf copies of these articles.