Theories of Crime
What is Rational Choice Theory?
This theory suggests individuals weigh the costs and benefits before committing a crime.
What is the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) In the U.S.?
This FBI program collects data on crimes reported to law enforcement agencies in the U.S.
What is property crime?
Burglary, theft, and vandalism are examples of this type of crime.
What is patrolling?
Officers engaging in routine surveillance or community monitoring are performing this basic police function.
What is self-defence?
This legal defence is used when someone uses reasonable force to protect themselves from harm.
What is Social Learning Theory?
This theory argues that people learn criminal behavior through interactions with others.
What is the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) in the U.S.?
This survey gathers information about unreported crimes from victims in the U.S.
What is violent crime?
Assault, robbery, and homicide fall under this category of crime.
What is probable cause?
Police need this standard of evidence to make an arrest or obtain a search warrant.
What is actus reus?
This Latin term refers to the physical act of committing a crime.
What is Strain Theory?
This theory states that societal pressure to achieve success may lead to criminal behavior.
What is the clearance rate?
This term refers to the percentage of reported crimes that are solved by law enforcement.
What is white-collar crime?
Fraud, embezzlement, and insider trading are examples of this crime committed in a professional setting.
What is forensic science?
This scientific method involves analyzing physical evidence from a crime scene.
What is mens rea?
This Latin term refers to the intent to commit a crime.
What is Labeling Theory?
This theory posits that being labelled as a criminal can lead to further deviance.
What is the difference between reported vs. unreported crime?
These terms refer to crimes that either go unnoticed or are not reported to authorities.
What is cybercrime?
This type of crime involves offenses committed using computers or the internet.
What is community policing?
This approach emphasizes building relationships between police and the community to reduce crime.
What is due process?
This legal principle ensures fair treatment through the normal judicial system.
What is Routine Activities Theory?
This theory explains crime as a result of motivated offenders, suitable targets, and lack of guardianship.
What is a crime trend?
This term describes changes in crime rates over time.
What is organized crime?
This crime involves a structured group engaging in illegal activities, often for profit, like drug trafficking or racketeering.
What is police discretion?
This term refers to an officer’s ability to make decisions on enforcement in the field.
What is double jeopardy?
Prevents a person from being tried for the same crime twice.