Rational choice theory (Detterence theory)

The idea that peoples behavior,including criminal behavior,is influenced by the potential consequences of thier actions

History

Roots in classical school of criminology developed by Italian social thinker Cesare Beccaria and his utilitarian approach
Classical approach replaced by positivist criminology that focused on internal and external factors rather then personal choice and decision making

Late 1960s:criminologists re-embrace classical ideas

Becker-argued that except for a few mentally ill people,criminals behave in rational ways when deciding to commit crimes

Offenders choose to commit crimes based on careful thought and planning

behavior is driven by expected utility= perception of economic rewards relative to criminal justice punishment costs,weighted by offense/offender specific factors
Analogy:stock market investment

Personal factors-money,revenge,thrils
situational factors-target availibility,security measures,police measures
Choosing crimes:Burglars choose target based on value,novelty,resale potential,decision to commit enhanced by promise of easy gain with low risk
Choosing to forgo crime: Stand a good chance of being caught and punished, fear the consequences of punishment, risk of apprehension outweighs profit/pleasure

	Created by Beth b about 11 years ago

Crim Note on Crim:Chapter 4, created by Beth b on 26/09/2013.