CMY3701
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Unique No: 831785
Due 18 August 2025
, 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
Social disorganisation theory, originally developed by the Chicago School in the early
20th century, seeks to explain how breakdowns in social institutions (like families,
schools, and community networks) contribute to criminal behaviour, especially in urban
environments. It focuses not on the individual offender, but on the environment that
fosters deviance.
Main Discussion
Historical Background and Theoretical Roots
The theory was formalised by Shaw and McKay (1942), who studied juvenile
delinquency patterns in Chicago. They found that crime was higher in inner-city areas
marked by poverty, ethnic heterogeneity, and residential instability regardless of which
groups lived there over time. This showed that place, not people, was the key factor.
Core Concepts of the Theory
1. Socioeconomic Disadvantage
Communities facing high unemployment, poverty, and limited access to
education or resources tend to have weakened informal social controls (Kubrin &
Weitzer, 2003). These environments create breeding grounds for deviance.
2. Residential Instability
High turnover rates of residents undermine community bonds and weaken social
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Unique No: 831785
Due 18 August 2025
, 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
Social disorganisation theory, originally developed by the Chicago School in the early
20th century, seeks to explain how breakdowns in social institutions (like families,
schools, and community networks) contribute to criminal behaviour, especially in urban
environments. It focuses not on the individual offender, but on the environment that
fosters deviance.
Main Discussion
Historical Background and Theoretical Roots
The theory was formalised by Shaw and McKay (1942), who studied juvenile
delinquency patterns in Chicago. They found that crime was higher in inner-city areas
marked by poverty, ethnic heterogeneity, and residential instability regardless of which
groups lived there over time. This showed that place, not people, was the key factor.
Core Concepts of the Theory
1. Socioeconomic Disadvantage
Communities facing high unemployment, poverty, and limited access to
education or resources tend to have weakened informal social controls (Kubrin &
Weitzer, 2003). These environments create breeding grounds for deviance.
2. Residential Instability
High turnover rates of residents undermine community bonds and weaken social
