Criminological Theories and Criminal Behaviour

What is the primary focus of rational choice theory in the context of criminal behaviour?

• The influence of genetic factors on crime

• Individuals make decisions logically and with a clear mind

• The role of social structures in crime

• The impact of childhood experiences

Which of the following is a key principle of rational choice theory?

• Crime is a result of biological determinism

• Crime is a result of irrational impulses

• People weigh the costs and benefits of their actions before deciding what to do

• Crime is influenced by social inequality

Biological positivism suggests that criminal behaviour is linked to:

• Economic status

• Genetic and physical characteristics

• Educational background

• Peer influence

Which physical features were historically associated with criminals according to biological positivism? (Lombroso)

• Asymmetrical faces

• Large jaws or cheekbones

• All of these

• Long arms

Psychological positivism includes which of the following theories?

• Strain theory

• Labelling theory

• Psychodynamic and behavioural theories

• Social disorganisation theory

According to psychodynamic theory, (Freud) criminal behaviour may result from:

• A lack of social bonds

• Early childhood experiences

• Economic deprivation

• Peer pressure

Behavioural theory in psychological positivism suggests that criminal behaviour is:

• Inherited genetically

• A result of learned behaviours

• A consequence of social inequality

• An outcome of economic factors

Which criminological theory emphasises the role of free will in committing crimes?

• Biological positivism

• Rational choice theory

• Psychological positivism

• Strain theory

How do behaviourists (Skinner, Pavlov, Bandura) view the nature of criminal behaviour?

• As a rational choice

• As a result of biological factors

• As determined by environment

• As influenced by economic conditions

Which of the following is a criticism of rational choice theory?

• It ignores the role of free will

• It overemphasises biological factors

• It assumes all individuals have equal access to information

• It focuses too much on social structures