NCJ Number
85274
Date Published
1981
Length
67 pages
Annotation
These resource and instructional materials for a 3-week high school study program on criminal behavior, crime control and prevention, and the criminal justice system teach students to analyze crime in a rational way, within a political and economic framework.
Abstract
Individual study units focus on general knowledge about crime, crime costs, crimes against businesses, control from the sociological and economic perspectives, school crime prevention planning, and cost-effectiveness in law enforcement. A topical overview introduces students to basic issues such as the collection of crime data through the FBI Uniform Crime Reports, and the hidden costs of crime other than those victims bear. The 'liberal' view of crime as a sociological-psychological phenomenon is contrasted to the 'conservative' view that crime results from moral laxity in society. The guide also discusses the relatively new economic approach to explaining criminal behavior, and the related issue of punishment as a deterrent. An overview gives particular attention to the dynamics of the juvenile justice system. Finally, the guide discusses political and economic contexts for understanding and analyzing crime and crime control, addressing resource allocation, cost-effectiveness of enforcement, and decriminalization as a method for focusing on the most serious crimes. Study unit outlines include a list of materials, instructional objectives, and a teaching strategy. Handouts, study questions, and quizzes are provided. A bibliography of 25 entries refers teachers to further readings and audiovisual materials.