Crim:Chapter 4

Rational choice theory (Detterence theory) The idea that peoples behavior,including criminal behavior,is influenced by the potential consequences of thier actionsHistory 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 ideasBecker-argued that except for a few mentally ill people,criminals behave in rational ways when deciding to commit crimesOffenders choose to commit crimes based on careful thought and planningbehavior is driven by expected utility= perception of economic rewards relative to criminal justice punishment costs,weighted by offense/offender specific factorsAnalogy: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

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