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2020-2021 Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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CJC 207 - Introduction to Criminology


Credits: 3
3 Lecture Hours

Description
This course is a survey of the patterns and trends in adult criminal behavior and juvenile delinquency analyzed in terms of various theories of such behavior. Students will also examine types of crime and the administration of justice. Material is presented describing the types and amount of crime in the United States. Characteristics such as age, race, gender and class of offender types are discussed. The interaction between society, the criminal justice system and the offender is examined. The current correctional practices that focus on the goals, organization, functions and operations of state, county and local correctional systems are examined. Theories on crime causation are analyzed.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

  1. Define major theories and tenets of crime causation.
  2. Distinguish among sociological, biological, psychological and integrated theories of criminology.
  3. Evaluate the empirical support for and criticisms of the major theories of crime causation.
  4. Describe the major policy implications of each criminological theory.
  5. Explain the historical development of criminology.
  6. Explain the relationship between criminological theory and practice.
  7. Evaluate relevant theories and policy prescriptions with a view to identifying more effective ways to address and increase social justice.
Listed Topics
  1. The study of crime
  2. Measuring crime
  3. Crime and its costs
  4. Dimensions of crime
  5. Biological and psychological explanations of crime
  6. Social, cultural and economic sources of crime
  7. Social control and commitment to the law
  8. Learning to commit crime
  9. Criminal careers
  10. The organization of criminal behavior
  11. Community reactions to crime
  12. Deterrence, incapacitation, retribution and rehabilitation
  13. Reducing crime strategies
Reference Materials
A contemporary text in the field.
Approved By: Murphy, Michael Date Approved: 01/06/2014


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