Question

(this question is from introduction to criminology)

The purpose of DUI (driving under influence) statutes is to reduce the propensity of drunk driving not only in convicted offenders but also in the general public. Some studies, however, show that these laws only affect those least likely to drink and drive. In other words, drunk driving laws do not have a deterrent effect on hardcore drinking drivers.

Using contemporary classical theories, propose some alternative ideas for addressing problem drinkers.

Answer 1

Note: This response is in UK English, please paste the response to MS Word and you should be able to spot discrepancies easily. You may elaborate the answer based on personal views or your classwork if necessary.

(Answer) Let us consider the theory of ‘Operant Conditioning’. In this theory, a person is able to learn and condition themselves to certain behaviours. This conditioning occurs through either a reward or punitive system. This would mean that if an individual knows that they will be punished for a certain behaviour, they will tread cautiously. On the other hand, if they are rewarded for to particular behaviour, they will be encouraged to do it.

Similarly, people who frequently drink and drive would know its implications. This means that they would drive carefully on that occasion because they know they will be severely punished if they don’t.

A person who isn’t used to drinking and driving might not be used to controlling their behaviour in such situations. They might not be familiar with the kind of actions that enable them to get caught. They might be familiar with the law but they simply are not conditioned to knowing the behaviour that gets them caught. This is why hardcore drunk drivers tend to not get caught as opposed to the ones who rarely do so.