Crime Theories

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that followers of the social organization theory believe the degree of a society's organization is correlated with violent crime. The writer maintains that if a community has strong social institutions or organizations, there will be less violent crime. Conversely, the writer points out that in a society where social organizations are under-funded, weak or ineffective, there will be higher instances of crime. The writer argues that social organization theories are right to emphasize the importance of institutions, which after all exist to serve public needs such as safety and education. It is also important to note, as social process theories do, that these institutions are made up of individuals, and as social creatures, these inter-relations fulfill basic human needs. Thus, the writer claims that a more comprehensive approach to preventing violent crime would be to ensure that institutions such as schools and law enforcement are well-funded.

From the Paper:

"The strengths of the social organization theory of crime can be seen in the success of recreational programs targeted to at-risk youth. These programs are designed to meet the youth's problems in a positive way, encouraging them to form healthy attachments with their peers and mentors. One such successful project is the "Comin' Up" program in Forth Worth, Texas. Comin' Up is a midnight youth-oriented basketball league that was convened to give gang members an alternative activity to crime and violence. Since the program was initiated, Fort Worth police reported a 39 percent decrease in juvenile crime. Similarly, mentoring programs stress the need for mentoring programs for youths having difficulty at school. This requires concerted efforts on the part of teachers and other educators, as well as counselors and social workers. Athletic leagues, summer camps and similar recreation programs remain staples of community activities geared towards avoiding violent crime."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Shaw, C. & H. McKay. (1942). Juvenile Delinquency and Urban Areas. Chicago: Univ. Press.
• Sutherland, Edwin H. 1983. White Collar Crime: The Uncut Version. Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group.

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