Criminological Theories

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses some of the theories of criminology that attempt to discover the nature and causes of criminal behavior. It describes and discusses the classical approach of criminal behavior, the so called hard-determinism theories, the neo-classical theory, the positivist theory, the functionalist explanation and the labeling theory. The paper concludes that there is still much need of research and interpretation in order to find satisfying answers.

From the Paper:

"Opposing this view is the labeling theory. It takes a distinctive approach from the functionalist models by emphasizing the negative consequences categorizing human actions in the criminal system. One of the most important figures of this theory, Leslie White, considers that attaching different labels to humans has deep consequences over future behavior. (White, 1969) It has a double role. On the one hand, it shows the way in which the society perceives him as an individual and on the other, the way in which he interprets the meaning of the symbol. Mead argues in this respect the fact that there can be certain contradictions between the two perspectives and thus conflict may arise. (Mead, 1934) However, there are opinions that do not consider labeling to be a source for criminal behavior, Triplett arguing that labeling alone does not cause delinquent behavior, but must be associated with the reward system in which the individual operates. (Triplett, 1990) A moderate stand is taken by Lemert who considers that labeling cannot offer an explanation to primary deviance but to secondary ones. (Lemert, 1967) Labeling encourages the definition of certain attitudes in consideration of subjective norms that can alienate the individual and can push him towards recidivating."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Larry Siegel, (1992). Criminology. New York: West Publishing.
• Lemert, Edwin. (1967). Human Deviance, Social Problems and Social Control. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice Hall.
• Mead, George H. (1934). Mind, Self and Society. C. Morris (ed). Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
• Triplett, Ruth. (1990). Labeling and Differential Association: The Effects on Delinquent Behavior. University of Maryland. Wellford, Charles F.
• White, Leslie A. (1969) The symbol. Science and Culture (L. White) New York: Farrar, Strauss, Giroux.

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