How the assumptions of control theories

Full Answer Section

• • The emphasis is on the factors that "hold people back" from criminal activity, such as social bonds, self-control, and the fear of consequences.

Influence on Responses to Crime:

These differing assumptions significantly influence how we respond to crime:

• Previous Theories:
  • These theories often lead to crime prevention strategies that address social inequalities, provide educational and vocational opportunities, or offer therapy and counseling.
• Control Theories:
  • Control theories emphasize strengthening social bonds, enhancing self-control, and increasing the perceived costs of crime.
  • This can translate into policies that focus on:
    • Strong family and community ties.
    • Effective parenting.
    • Consistent discipline.
    • Deterrence through swift and certain punishment.

Differential Coercion Theory and the Criminal Justice System:

Differential coercion theory, developed by Mark Colvin, expands on control theories by focusing on the role of coercion in shaping criminal behavior.

• Key Concepts:
  • It distinguishes between coercive control (punitive, erratic) and non-coercive control (consistent, supportive).
  • It argues that individuals exposed to chronic coercive control are more likely to develop antisocial behaviors.
  • It highlights the interplay of coercion in various social settings, including families, schools, and the criminal justice system itself.

Application to the Current Criminal Justice System:

Applying differential coercion theory to our current criminal justice system raises concerns:

• Potential for Coercive Control:
  • Many aspects of the system, such as incarceration and probation, can be inherently coercive.
  • If implemented in a punitive and erratic manner, these measures can reinforce rather than reduce criminal behavior.
• Effectiveness:
  • According to the theory, a system that relies heavily on coercive control without addressing underlying social and personal factors is unlikely to be effective.
  • The system may perpetuate a cycle of coercion, leading to increased recidivism.
• Needed Improvements:
  • To align with the theory's concepts, the criminal justice system should prioritize:
    • Alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders.
    • Rehabilitation programs that focus on developing social skills and self-control.
    • Support systems that provide stability and reduce exposure to coercive environments.
    • A move away from purely punitive measures, and a move toward restorative justice.

In essence, differential coercion theory suggests that our current system, with its emphasis on punishment, may inadvertently contribute to the problem it seeks to solve.

Sample Answer

Control theories offer a distinct perspective within criminology, differing significantly from earlier theories that focused on the "why" of criminal behavior. Here's a breakdown:

Variations in Assumptions:

• Previous Theories:
  • Many earlier theories (e.g., strain theory, learning theory) assume that individuals are inherently good or neutral, and that criminal behavior results from external pressures or learned behaviors.
  • They often focus on factors that "push" individuals toward crime, such as social inequalities, peer influence, or psychological abnormalities.
• Control Theories:
  • Control theories, conversely, propose that individuals are naturally inclined toward self-interest and would engage in criminal behavior if not restrained.
  • They shift the focus from "why do people commit crime?" to "why don't people commit crime?"