Question

1. What are some problems with trying to use personality to explain crime? Use research-based examples to help support your answer.

2. Explain the concept of the social disorganization and routine activities theories. Research a program (past or present) used by law enforcement to explain how these theories are applied in real-world situations. Be specific

Answer 1

Crime can be explained through the personality disorder named, Antisocial Personality Disorder.The essential feature of antisocial personality disorder is a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others that begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into adulthood. This pattern has also been referred to as psychopathy, sociopathy, or dyssocial personality disorder. Because deceit and manipulation are central features of antisocial personality disorder, it may be especially helpful to integrate information acquired from systematic clinical assessment with information collected from collateral sources.Individuals with antisocial personality disorder frequently lack empathy and tend to be callous, cynical, and contemptuous of the feelings, rights, and sufferings of others. They may have an inflated and arrogant self-appraisal (e.g., feel that ordinary work is beneath them or lack a realistic concern about their current problems or their future) and may be excessively opinionated, self-assured, or cocky.

Social disorganization theory grew out of research conducted in Chicago by Shaw and McKay.The theory directly links crime rates to neighborhood ecological characteristics; a core principle of social disorganization theory is that place matters. In other words, a person's residential location is a substantial factor shaping the likelihood that that person will become involved in illegal activities. The theory suggests that, among determinants of a person's later illegal activity, residential location is as significant as or more significant than the person's individual characteristics.

Routine activity theory is a sub-field of crime opportunity theory that focuses on situations of crimes. It was first proposed by Marcus Felson and Lawrence E. Cohen in their explanation of crime rate change in the United States 1947 - 1974.This theory states that in order for a crime to be committed, three specific criteria must be involved. These criteria are that there must be a motivated offender, a suitable target, as well as the absence of a capable guardian.The general lifestyle of an individual plays an important part in the definition of routine activity theory. The more one is exposed to criminal behavior in their everyday lifestyle, the higher the likelihood that a person will commit criminal activity.