Criminological Theory and Sanctions - Essay Example

Criminology theory and sanctions Different theories exist that explain reasons for criminal behavior and therefore offer insight into possible prevention measures. The theories identify causes of crimes whose understanding and incorporation in sanctions may influence criminal behavior. Consequently, reasons for an individual’s engagement in a serious crime should be considered when imposing a criminal sanction. Classical theory, considered together with routine activities theory, of criminal behavior explains this.

According to classical theory, crime occurs from an offender’s rational perspective of benefits and consequences of a criminal act. Perceived net benefit, therefore, motivates a criminal behavior. Routine activities theory further explains interaction of motivation from perceived net benefits with presence of a vulnerable target and absence of guidance. Occurrence of a crime within these frameworks would therefore define a normal criminal activity and support normal sanction codes but not an occurrence outside frameworks, which should require a different consideration in determining a sanction.

A criminal activity in which perceived cost is far above perceived benefits or one that is conducted in full presence of a guardian and on non-vulnerable target identifies factors that may require lesser sanctions. This is because of possible biological, social, and psychological complications into criminal behavior that requires different approaches to prevention of criminal activities based on causes. Remedying behavior caused by genetic problems, for example, require biological initiatives that are not the same for initiatives for social or psychological dependent behavior (Bryant 144- 146).

Applied sanction should therefore depend on reasons for a crime because these are likely to explain the real cause of criminal behavior and facilitate objectives of criminal justice. Works citedBryant, Clifton. The Routledge handbook of deviant behavior. New York, NY: Routledge, 2011. Print.