This paper explores the root causes of crime. The causes of crime are complex and multifaceted. Most people today accept that genetics, poverty, parental neglect, low self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse are all connected in explaining why people commit crimes.

Root causes of crime.

Class you were introduced to the Course Essay in Module 1. You should have reflected on each of the topics and theories we have discussed throughout the course and answered the question “What are the root causes of crime and what can be done to prevent or reduce crime in society?” The causes of crime are complex and multifaceted. Most people today accept that genetics, poverty, parental neglect, low self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse are all connected in explaining why people commit crimes. Research has stated that it is more often an interaction between genes and the environment that predicts criminal behavior.

Root causes of crime.

Having a genetic predisposition for criminal behavior does not determine the actions of an individual, but if they are exposed to the right environment, then their chances are greater for engaging in criminal or anti-social behavior. A profiler might utilize the old cliché, “genetics loads the gun, personality aims it and the environment pulls the trigger.” Could it really be that simple? Some people are simply at greater risk of becoming offenders because of the circumstances into which they are born. Research can only hope to eliminate some factors from consideration and strengthen our confidence in the role played by other factors.

Root causes of crime.

Naturally, as research continues to be conducted, our picture of crime constantly changes. One common problem in popular discussions of crime is a tendency to confuse the search for causes with a search for blame. To say that child neglect increases the risk of delinquency or that alcohol abuse increases the risk of domestic violence is not to say that parents are to blame for delinquency or that alcohol abuse is to blame for domestic violence. The term “crime” is, itself, potentially misleading. It encompasses everything from non-payment of parking fines to rape, armed robbery or murder.

Root causes of crime.

You may find it easier to associate a particular individual with the question. For example you could do a case study on Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Samuel Little, etc… You can discuss the what you believe to be the root causes of their ultimate actions that led them to be prolific killers. I have also had students do essays on Human Trafficking victims, examining the most common ways victims through threats, violence or severe poverty come to be in the control of Traffickers.

Root causes of crime.

Throughout the semester, we discussed several theories of crime and criminality, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and policy implications. They all attempted to explain the causes of crime and what if anything we can do about it. You will submit your 1,500 to 2000 word essay (not to include an abstract, cover page, or references). Your essay will be graded via a Rubric. The Rubric serves as your Scoring Guide so make sure you follow it.

Root causes of crime.

You will submit your paper in “WORD.” Please do not attempt to submit a paper in a PDF format, it will not be accepted. Students should have developed a thesis statement that concisely articulates the paper’s main point, while directing the reader to the content in the body of the essay. The body of the paper should cite specific theories, relevant material, concepts, authors, and research. https://youtu.be/v1cF3xnimBY

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