Criminological Theories: Labeling, Stigma, Conflict, and More

A horizontal 2D infographic presenting seven major criminological theories — Labeling Theory, Primary & Secondary Deviance, Stigma Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Differential Association, Conflict Theory, and Heat and Crime Theory — with icons and brief summaries of their core concepts and key figures.

Introduction to Criminological Theories Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. To understand the nature of crime, criminologists develop theories to explain why individuals engage in criminal acts. These theories encompass a variety of perspectives that focus on factors such as social reactions, psychological processes, environmental influences, and societal structures. In this … Read more

Criminology and Sociology: Understanding Crime Through Social Perspectives

Conceptual graphic of criminology and sociology focusing on crime prevention and societal impact.

1. Introduction Criminology and sociology are two deeply interconnected fields that explore the nature, causes, and consequences of human behavior within social contexts. While criminology specifically focuses on crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system, sociology provides a broader understanding of human society and social structures. Together, criminology and sociology offer powerful tools for … Read more

Edwin Sutherland: Redefining Crime and Society Today

A conceptual illustration of Edwin Sutherland's criminology theories, including White-Collar Crime and Differential Association Theory.

Who Was Edwin Sutherland Edwin Sutherland stands as one of the most influential criminologists of the 20th century, fundamentally reshaping the study of crime through his groundbreaking work. His contributions to criminology, particularly his development of the Differential Association Theory, revolutionized the understanding of criminal behavior. By shifting the focus from biological and psychological explanations … Read more

Criminal Activity in Criminology

Q dimly lit detective’s desk with evidence photos, crime scene markers, and a forensic report, symbolizing criminology and criminal activity.

Criminal activity has long been a subject of study in criminology, a discipline dedicated to understanding crime, its causes, and its impact on society. From ancient times to modern-day criminology, scholars have attempted to analyze criminal behavior through various perspectives, including psychological, sociological, and biological dimensions. This article explores criminal activity within criminology, incorporating insights … Read more

Criminality as a Collective Issue

A conceptual illustration of criminality as a collective issue, showing a cityscape with interconnected figures symbolizing societal links to crime.

Criminality has long been perceived as an individual failure, a consequence of personal moral corruption, psychological disorders, or defective upbringing. However, modern criminology increasingly views crime as a collective issue, deeply embedded in societal structures and systemic inequalities. This article explores criminality as a social phenomenon, influenced by economic disparity, cultural dynamics, and institutional shortcomings, … Read more

The American Social School of Criminology: Three Main Ideas

Illustration of the American Social School in criminology, featuring urban crime analysis.

The American Social School in criminology has significantly contributed to understanding criminal behavior through sociological perspectives. This school of thought emphasizes the impact of environmental, cultural, and social interactions on individuals’ propensity for crime. Among the most influential theories within this school are the Ecological Theory, Cultural Conflict Theory, and Differential Association Theory. These theories … Read more

Crime and Society: The American Social School

A criminology-themed digital illustration portraying social interactions, economic disparity, and law enforcement in an urban setting, symbolizing The American Social School.

The American Social School in criminology represents a significant paradigm shift from biological and psychological explanations of criminal behavior to a more sociologically driven understanding. This school of thought emphasizes the role of social structures, economic conditions, and environmental factors in shaping criminal behavior. Unlike earlier theories that attributed crime to individual pathology, the American … Read more

The Social Milieu School: Exploring Social Influences on Criminal Behavior

An urban neighborhood illustrating the influence of social environments on community dynamics and behavior

Introduction to The Social Milieu School The Social Milieu School, a critical perspective in criminology, emphasizes the role of social environments in shaping human behavior, particularly criminal tendencies. It proposes that crime is not merely the result of individual pathology or genetic predispositions but is profoundly influenced by the social context in which individuals live. … Read more

The Social School in Criminology and Its Branches: A Comprehensive Analysis

Visualization of The Social Milieu School in Criminology emphasizing sociology and justice.

Introduction to the Social School in Criminology The Social School in criminology represents a pivotal framework in understanding crime and criminal behavior through the lens of social structures and interactions. Unlike other criminological schools that focus on biological or psychological factors, the Social School emphasizes the role of societal conditions, environments, and relationships in shaping … Read more

Robert K. Merton and Criminology: Contributions, Theories, and Impact

A horizontal digital image with the phrase 'ROBERT K. MERTON AND CRIMINOLOGY' written in bold, white capital letters. The background is a textured, dark brown surface, giving the image an academic and vintage look.

Introduction Robert K. Merton stands as one of the most influential sociologists of the 20th century. His theories and concepts, particularly in the realm of criminology, have shaped the way scholars and practitioners understand the roots of deviant behavior. Known primarily for his Strain Theory, Merton offered a framework for analyzing how societal structures contribute … Read more