, CMY2601 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 2 2026 - DUE August 2026; 100% Correct
solutions and explanations.
Question 1: Explain the reasons why men commit more crimes than women
do
Introduction
Briefly explain that crime statistics across many countries, including South Africa,
consistently show that men are responsible for a much larger proportion of
reported criminal offences than women. State that criminologists attribute this
pattern to a combination of biological, psychological, social, economic, and
cultural factors rather than a single cause.
Definition of Crime
Define crime as conduct that violates criminal law and is punishable by the state.
You can also mention that criminology examines why individuals engage in
criminal behaviour and how society responds to crime.
Reasons why men commit more crimes than women
1. Gender socialisation
• Boys and girls are often raised differently.
• Boys may be encouraged to be tough, competitive, dominant, and
independent.
• Girls are more often encouraged to be caring, obedient, and risk-averse.
• These social expectations can increase men's involvement in aggressive or
criminal behaviour.
2. Masculinity and cultural expectations
• Some societies associate masculinity with power, violence, and taking risks.
• Men may commit crimes to prove strength, gain respect, or protect their
reputation.
• Violent crime, gang membership, and weapon carrying can sometimes be
linked to these expectations.
Semester 2 2026 - DUE August 2026; 100% Correct
solutions and explanations.
Question 1: Explain the reasons why men commit more crimes than women
do
Introduction
Briefly explain that crime statistics across many countries, including South Africa,
consistently show that men are responsible for a much larger proportion of
reported criminal offences than women. State that criminologists attribute this
pattern to a combination of biological, psychological, social, economic, and
cultural factors rather than a single cause.
Definition of Crime
Define crime as conduct that violates criminal law and is punishable by the state.
You can also mention that criminology examines why individuals engage in
criminal behaviour and how society responds to crime.
Reasons why men commit more crimes than women
1. Gender socialisation
• Boys and girls are often raised differently.
• Boys may be encouraged to be tough, competitive, dominant, and
independent.
• Girls are more often encouraged to be caring, obedient, and risk-averse.
• These social expectations can increase men's involvement in aggressive or
criminal behaviour.
2. Masculinity and cultural expectations
• Some societies associate masculinity with power, violence, and taking risks.
• Men may commit crimes to prove strength, gain respect, or protect their
reputation.
• Violent crime, gang membership, and weapon carrying can sometimes be
linked to these expectations.
