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Choice Theories Crime

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Identify and describe choice theories and how they relate to crime. Additionally, list and describe the common models in how society determines which acts are considered to be criminal and how it impacted by choice theories of crime.

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The expert identifies and describes the choice theories and how they relate to crime. The common models in how society determines which acts are considered to be criminal is determined.

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There are several choice theories in relation to criminology and why people commit crime. Rational choice theory, deterrence theory, and routine activities theory are some of the most well-known and researched theories. Rational choice theory posits that people who commit criminal acts weight a cost-benefit analysis as to whether committing criminal acts will result in benefits that justify the potential risks associated with the act. Therefore, if someone wishes to steal from a store the probability of being apprehended or caught would justify whether or not they follow through on this intention. If the risks outweigh the reward then the person may be deterred from committing the criminal act.

The deterrence theory focuses on developing laws and enforcing these laws against those who break the law to deter future criminals. This theory posits that if laws are severe enough in punitive sanctions that other potential criminals would possibly be deterred from committing similar acts. Deterrence theory dictates that rational choice would be utilized by someone who is privy to the knowledge that committing a murder during ...

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