NCJ Number
147911
Journal
Journal of Quantitative Criminology Volume: 9 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1993) Pages: 411-441
Date Published
1993
Length
31 pages
Annotation
Trends in female criminality from 1960 to 1990 are examined; the main focus is on Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) arrest statistics, but other sources of evidence are also used.
Abstract
The data reflect trends in arrest rates, female percentage of arrests, and offender profiles and also depict juvenile versus adult trends in the female percentage of arrests. The data indicate that the distribution of offenses for which both males and females are arrested has changed; relative to males, however, the profile of the female offender has not changed. Females have made arrest gains in many UCR offense categories, but the most significant change in the female percentage of arrests involves the overall rise in property crimes, especially minor theft and fraud. Female-to-male involvement in serious or violent crime has held steady since 1960. Female arrest trends are explained in terms of such factors as the organizational management of crime and the enhanced visibility of female offending, female emancipation, increased economic adversity of women, expanded opportunities for female-type crimes, changes in the criminal underworld, and drug dependency. Female criminality is reviewed for homicide, burglary, driving under the influence, and larceny-theft. The author contends that gender differences in the quantity and quality of crime will continue to be consistent with traditional gender role expectations, behaviors, and opportunities. Recommendations for future research are offered. 71 references and 1 table