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Criminology: Course Analysis

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Throughout this course, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of what criminology is. Specifically, criminology is defined as the study of crime and why people commit crimes (Schmalleger, 2015). It is a complex area of study in which, criminologists study the causes, and how to prevent future crimes from occurring. The causes of crime range from classical theories, biological, societal, and psychological perspectives. All of these perspectives help us understand why some individuals are more inclined to commit crimes than others. Social structure, development, conflict may also contribute to crime. Moreover, I have learned that crime is a general term. There are specific types of crimes such as those against people or property. I have acquired …show more content…

Schmalleger (2015) explains that crimes could be committed toward a person or property. Crimes against persons can include homicide or rape. Child sexual abuse is also classified as a crime against persons. Child sexual abuse covers a vast list of criminal offenses that involve children. Crime is not only related to persons but also to things or property. Crimes of property include arson, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Schmalleger (2015) explains that there are two types of thieves. Individuals who are considered professional thieves usually plan their crimes and spend a short amount of time in jail. They also make a good amount of money from these thefts. Conversely, persistent thieves continue committing crimes of theft despite their minimal success. Crimes do not only pertain to persons but also …show more content…

I learned what crime was and why people commit crimes, and ways to prevent it. Throughout the text, Schmalleger (2015) examines different perspectives to describe why individuals commit crimes. Among those perspectives are the early classical theories, biological, societal, psychological/psychiatric views. All of these views help us understand the different reasons for people to commit crimes. Ways to prevent criminal behaviors are offered, and each is tailored to the specific perspective. These interventions or prevention programs are created through the evidence from empirical research which examines different methods of intervention and which ones are more successful than others. Along with why crime occurs and who commits crimes I also learned that crimes are not limited to crimes against persons, such as rape, murder. Crimes can also be against property. These crimes include motor vehicle theft, arson, and burglary. Overall, I have gained extensive knowledge on what the field of criminology is, what criminologists do, and what crime is and how it affects our society. With this knowledge, I will have a better chance at succeeding in my criminal justice minor as well as being knowledgeable about things that affect our

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