Classical vs. Positivist Theories
This theory assumes free will and rational decision-making.
What is classical theory?
This theory suggests that some individuals are more likely to engage in delinquent behavior because of inherited or physiological factors.
What is biological theory?
Learning through rewards and punishment is called this.
What is operant conditioning?
This theory explains crime through identity being shaped by how others see you.
What is labeling theory?
This refers to officer choice in handling juvenile cases.
What is discretion?
This perspective sees behavior as influenced by biology, psychology, or environment.
What is positivism?
A major criticism of early biological research is that it often failed to account for this type of influence.
What is environmental factors (like upbringing or social factors)?
Psychological theories focus on ________________ instead of punishment.
What is treatment/rehabilitation
This theory links crime to weak community controls.
What is social disorganization theory?
Over time, juveniles gained more of these protections.
What are legal rights?
In classical theory, crime is caused by this type of decision.
What is a rational choice?
Biosocial theory combines these two influences.
What are biology and environment?
This explains why timing of life events (school, marriage, children, etc.) affects delinquency.
What is developmental life-course theory?
One key feature of high-crime neighborhoods is this.
What is poverty / instability / weak social control? (any one)
This case established rights to remain silent and have an attorney.
What is Miranda v. Arizona?
A major criticism of classical theory is that it ignores this.
What are individual differences and/or things that influence behavior beyond free will and rational choice (psychological, social, biological factors)?
What is a correlation?
Most youth stop offending due to this process.
What is aging out (maturation, increased responsibilities)?
These are the four elements of Hirschi’s bond.
What are attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief?
Modern policing trends emphasize this approach over punishment alone.
What is rehabilitation / diversion?
These modern approaches developed from classical ideas about choice.
What are deterrence theory, rational choice theory, and routine activities theory?
Correlation alone can't prove causation because:
What are unknown factors that may also be explaining the phenomenon?
These offenders are most likely to continue crime into adulthood.
Who are early-onset offenders?
This factor strongly influences juvenile behavior and justice outcomes.
What is parenting (family structure, supervision, support)?
A key issue is whether juveniles can do this with full understanding.
What is waive their rights knowingly and voluntarily?