Criminological Theories Final Exam
and Correct Answers 2025-2026
Updated.
Social Learning Theory
Akers 1985
Structural-Macro
Reinforcement=increases behaviors
Positive Reinforcement=Reward
Negative Reinforcement=Removal of punishment - Answer This attempted to elaborate
differential association theory. (filling in gaps) In general, social learning theory proposes that
both criminal and conforming
behavior are acquired, maintained, or changed by the same process of interaction with others.
The difference lies in the conforming or deviant direction or balance of the social
influences such as reinforcement, values and attitudes, and imitation.
General Strain Theory
Robert Agnew 1992
Individual - Answer Phycological strain
Developed for Young Adult Crime
Idea: Strain leads to Negative Emotions=Delinquency
Biological Theory
Cesare Lombroso1897
Individual-Micro
Atavisms:Genetic evolution - Answer Born criminal
First Biological theory of crime.
This type of criminal is the most dangerous, and can be identified through his or her stigmata or
identifying distinct physical characteristics.
Social Bonding Theory
, Self-Control Theory
Gottfredson & Hirschi 1990
Low self control= impulsivity-now
High self control= cautious-delay gradification - Answer (Internal traits)
A specific type of control theory developed by Gottfredson and
Hirschi in which self-control is the key factor in understanding criminal and deviant acts.
Classical Strain Theory
Robert Merton 1938
(Both individual & structural) - Answer Pleasure principle=Pleasure outweighs pain
People choose to commit crime
Strain=Aspirations=Expectations
Why they are doing it? 3 Factors:
1. overestimate profit
2. underestimate risk
3. not rational-short-term view/crime was worth it
Decrease crime:
1. celerity (swift)
2. Severity (punishment fits crime)
3. Certainty (high expectations of getting caught and punished)
Labeling Theory - Answer The theory that the formal and informal application of stigmatizing
and deviant "labels" or tags applied to an individual by society will not deter, but rather instigate
future deviant or criminal acts.
Rational Choice Theory
Cesare Beccaria - Answer This is the 1980s formulation of classical criminology. Cesare
Beccaria, adds a new dimension that emphasizes the expanding role of the economist in
criminological thought. The emphasis is placed on the expected reward for committing a crime,
and other associated costs and benefits surrounding criminal activity.
and Correct Answers 2025-2026
Updated.
Social Learning Theory
Akers 1985
Structural-Macro
Reinforcement=increases behaviors
Positive Reinforcement=Reward
Negative Reinforcement=Removal of punishment - Answer This attempted to elaborate
differential association theory. (filling in gaps) In general, social learning theory proposes that
both criminal and conforming
behavior are acquired, maintained, or changed by the same process of interaction with others.
The difference lies in the conforming or deviant direction or balance of the social
influences such as reinforcement, values and attitudes, and imitation.
General Strain Theory
Robert Agnew 1992
Individual - Answer Phycological strain
Developed for Young Adult Crime
Idea: Strain leads to Negative Emotions=Delinquency
Biological Theory
Cesare Lombroso1897
Individual-Micro
Atavisms:Genetic evolution - Answer Born criminal
First Biological theory of crime.
This type of criminal is the most dangerous, and can be identified through his or her stigmata or
identifying distinct physical characteristics.
Social Bonding Theory
, Self-Control Theory
Gottfredson & Hirschi 1990
Low self control= impulsivity-now
High self control= cautious-delay gradification - Answer (Internal traits)
A specific type of control theory developed by Gottfredson and
Hirschi in which self-control is the key factor in understanding criminal and deviant acts.
Classical Strain Theory
Robert Merton 1938
(Both individual & structural) - Answer Pleasure principle=Pleasure outweighs pain
People choose to commit crime
Strain=Aspirations=Expectations
Why they are doing it? 3 Factors:
1. overestimate profit
2. underestimate risk
3. not rational-short-term view/crime was worth it
Decrease crime:
1. celerity (swift)
2. Severity (punishment fits crime)
3. Certainty (high expectations of getting caught and punished)
Labeling Theory - Answer The theory that the formal and informal application of stigmatizing
and deviant "labels" or tags applied to an individual by society will not deter, but rather instigate
future deviant or criminal acts.
Rational Choice Theory
Cesare Beccaria - Answer This is the 1980s formulation of classical criminology. Cesare
Beccaria, adds a new dimension that emphasizes the expanding role of the economist in
criminological thought. The emphasis is placed on the expected reward for committing a crime,
and other associated costs and benefits surrounding criminal activity.
