Student Solution

-->

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”
– Nelson Mandela

1 University

1 Course

1 Subject

Module 1 Essay

Module 1 Essay

Q Instructions for M1 Theory Application (TApp) Essay Each theory application essay looks at two aspects: 1) empirical testing of the theory 2) application of the theory to policy or practice in criminal justice. Part 1 Using Google Scholar or university library databases, find a recent empirical article (published within the last 10-15 years) that tests some aspect of rational choice or deterrence applied to criminal justice issues. Feel free to use keywords like "rational choice and delinquency" or "deterrence and white collar crime" (or whatever other type of crime you are interested in with regard to deterrence). a. Copy and paste the article reference in APA format (click " button in Google Scholar or "Cite" button in library databases to obtain a reference). b. Explain how the authors measured rational choice or deterrence variables (independent variable) and what type of crimes or delinquent behavior was measured as the outcome (dependent variable). c. In a nutshell, what were the results of this study? d. What do you think the results of this study imply for the theory (or a specific component of the theory)? Part 2 Write a short (2-3 paragraphs) essay discussing which criminal justice policy or program seems most compatible with rational choice theory and how specifically the key concepts and propositions of the theory align with or inform the main parts of the policy/program. Clearly indicate Part 1 and Part 2 of your essay! Save the file as a Word document and upload it to the TurnItIn link in Module 1. TurnItIn is a system that checks for plagiarism so make sure you don't use any phrases or sentences from other sources (except for copying and pasting the article reference in APA format).

View Related Questions

Solution Preview

Sitren (2007) sought to test Stafford and Warr deterrence framework, which argued that the individual's tendency to commit crime is based on personal experiences and indirect experience with punishment and punishment avoidance. The study also used more salient deterrence variables and conducted a research survey of high-criminality in adults. Sitren (2007) included alternative sanctions into the deterrence theory to ensure a deeper understanding of criminal decision making. The study's independent variables were; the likelihood of offending, punishment severity, punishment impulsivity, vicarious experiences, personal experiences, religiosity, and extralegal costs and benefits. The delinquent behavior (outcome) measured included shoplifting, drug purchasing, and drunk driving. The study concluded that punishment avoidance experiences increased an individual's propensity to steal and drive drunk. For minor offenses such as shoplifting and drug purchases, increased punishment certainty deterred the behaviors.