Criminology: Core Theories & Concepts

What is the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program?

A nationwide, cooperative statistical effort by the FBI that collects data on crimes reported to law enforcement agencies.

How does the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) improve upon the traditional UCR?

It collects detailed data on every single crime occurrence within an incident, rather than just the most serious offense.

What is the primary purpose of the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS)?

To measure the 'dark figure of crime' by surveying households about their experiences as victims, regardless of police reporting.

Who is considered the father of Classical Criminology and argued that punishment should be certain, swift, and severe?

Cesare Beccaria.

What is Jeremy Bentham's 'hedonistic calculus'?

The idea that individuals weigh the potential pleasure of a crime against the potential pain of punishment before acting.

What term did Cesare Lombroso use to describe criminals as 'evolutionary throwbacks'?

Atavism (or atavistic anomalies).

According to Shaw and McKay’s Social Disorganization Theory, which city zone typically has the highest crime rates?

The Zone in Transition (Zone II), characterized by physical decay and high population turnover.

In Robert Merton’s Strain Theory, what causes 'anomie' or strain?

The disconnect between socially approved goals (like wealth) and the legitimate means available to achieve them.

According to Merton’s typology, which adaptation involves accepting cultural goals but rejecting legitimate means?

Innovation.

What is the core premise of Edwin Sutherland’s Differential Association Theory?

Criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others in intimate personal groups.