CMY3701
Assignment 1
Unique No:831785
Due 18 August 2025
, CMY3701
ASSIGNMENT 01
UNIQUE NUMBER: 831785
DUE DATE: 18 August 2025
SECTION A
Question 1.1: Critically Discuss the Social Disorganisation Theory
[15 marks for content + 5 marks for structure = 20 marks]
Introduction
The social disorganisation theory explains how environmental and community
breakdowns can lead to increased criminal behaviour, particularly in urban areas. It
suggests that crime is not merely a result of individual choices, but is often influenced
by weakened social structures such as family units, schools, and community networks.
Originating in early 20th-century sociology, this theory remains relevant in
understanding crime patterns in communities struggling with poverty and instability.
Main Discussion
1. Historical Background
Social disorganisation theory emerged from the work of scholars associated with the
Chicago School of Sociology, particularly Clifford Shaw and Henry McKay in the 1940s.
Their research on youth crime in Chicago revealed that areas with high poverty,
constant population turnover, and ethnic diversity consistently had high crime rates—
even as the populations living there changed. This led them to conclude that place-
based factors, rather than the characteristics of individuals, were central to explaining
criminal activity.
Assignment 1
Unique No:831785
Due 18 August 2025
, CMY3701
ASSIGNMENT 01
UNIQUE NUMBER: 831785
DUE DATE: 18 August 2025
SECTION A
Question 1.1: Critically Discuss the Social Disorganisation Theory
[15 marks for content + 5 marks for structure = 20 marks]
Introduction
The social disorganisation theory explains how environmental and community
breakdowns can lead to increased criminal behaviour, particularly in urban areas. It
suggests that crime is not merely a result of individual choices, but is often influenced
by weakened social structures such as family units, schools, and community networks.
Originating in early 20th-century sociology, this theory remains relevant in
understanding crime patterns in communities struggling with poverty and instability.
Main Discussion
1. Historical Background
Social disorganisation theory emerged from the work of scholars associated with the
Chicago School of Sociology, particularly Clifford Shaw and Henry McKay in the 1940s.
Their research on youth crime in Chicago revealed that areas with high poverty,
constant population turnover, and ethnic diversity consistently had high crime rates—
even as the populations living there changed. This led them to conclude that place-
based factors, rather than the characteristics of individuals, were central to explaining
criminal activity.
