Criminological Theories Exam Questions and
Answers
1. Social Learning
Theory Akers 1985
Structural-Macro
Reinforcement=increases
behaviors Positive
Reinforcement=Reward
Negative Reinforcement=Removal of punishment correct answer: This attempted
to elaborate ditterential 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 ditterence lies in the conforming or deviant direction or balance of the social
influences such as reinforcement, values and attitudes, and imitation.
2. General Strain
Theory Robert Agnew
1992 Individual correct
answer: Phycological
strain Developed for Young
Adult Crime
Idea correct answer: Strain leads to Negative Emotions=Delinquency
3. Biological Theory
Cesare
Lombroso1897
Individual-Micro
Atavisms correct answer:Genetic
evolution correct 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.
1/
9
, 4. Social Bonding Theory
Structural correct answer: A control theory that states that individuals will commit criminal or
delinquent acts when their ties (bonds) to society are weakened or have broken. There are four
types of bonds correct answer: attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. When the bonds are strong,
an individual will refrain from criminal activity.
5. Self-Control Theory
Gottfredson & Hirschi
1990
Low self control= impulsivity-now
High self control= cautious-delay gradification correct answer: (Internal
traits)
2/
9
Answers
1. Social Learning
Theory Akers 1985
Structural-Macro
Reinforcement=increases
behaviors Positive
Reinforcement=Reward
Negative Reinforcement=Removal of punishment correct answer: This attempted
to elaborate ditterential 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 ditterence lies in the conforming or deviant direction or balance of the social
influences such as reinforcement, values and attitudes, and imitation.
2. General Strain
Theory Robert Agnew
1992 Individual correct
answer: Phycological
strain Developed for Young
Adult Crime
Idea correct answer: Strain leads to Negative Emotions=Delinquency
3. Biological Theory
Cesare
Lombroso1897
Individual-Micro
Atavisms correct answer:Genetic
evolution correct 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.
1/
9
, 4. Social Bonding Theory
Structural correct answer: A control theory that states that individuals will commit criminal or
delinquent acts when their ties (bonds) to society are weakened or have broken. There are four
types of bonds correct answer: attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. When the bonds are strong,
an individual will refrain from criminal activity.
5. Self-Control Theory
Gottfredson & Hirschi
1990
Low self control= impulsivity-now
High self control= cautious-delay gradification correct answer: (Internal
traits)
2/
9
